pg. 10 FROM HEARING LOSS TO HEALING: How one couple's challenge became their mission
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Visit our booth at the Raleigh Southern Ideal Home Show, Sept. 13-15 and register to win this product!
As we close in on our 10year anniversary in the magazine business (more on that in May), I’m still struck by the most impactful piece of business advice we’ve ever gotten.
Randy Capps randy@johnstonnow.com
We were sitting in our office a couple of years ago, chatting with our friend Eric Brownlee. Shanna had the great idea to pick his brain for some pearls of wisdom.
“So, at what point do you get it all figured out,” she
asked. It was a perfect question, and one that I often pondered as we struggled to transition from a small company to a slightly larger one.
Without missing a beat, he broke our hearts.
“You don’t,” he said. He followed that with the idea that you’re constantly evolving as a business, and indeed as a business owner, and you meet challenges as they rise up in front of you.
But the idea of figuring things out is, and always
was, an illusion. There’s no magic bullet. If there was, I would be working on my novel on the lanai, watching cruise ships come into port in Great Bay down in Saint Martin, instead of sharing business ownership tips in this column.
If I have learned anything, and some days I wonder, it’s that you need to try to plan
for the place you want to be, rather for the place that you are.
That’s why, as I listen to the rain fall in Smithfield for what must be the 20th day in a row, I’m thinking about the Caribbean.
Johnston Now Magazine would like to congratulate all of the winners of the 7th Annual Honors Awards!
A celebration ceremony was held at The Barn at Broadslab in Benson in July. Awards were given in 12 categories and it was an inspiring evening where some very deserving citizens were in the spotlight for all of the amazing work they do for our communities. Enjoy some scenes from the evening, and start thinking about who you’d like to nominate for these awards for next year!
By Qarol Price
That’s right, you guessed it. September is “Spotlight on Respect” month, as proclaimed by Johnston County Public Schools. We are cordially prompted, as a community, to fix our attention on this prime virtue. What a wonderful opportunity for an entire county to bond in common toward a noble, enriching purpose. Character building is community building.
So, where do we begin, that is, if we accept the challenge of joining a countywide commitment to reflect upon each of the designated character traits each month? Well, this is the kind of thing where you just jump in and see where the road takes you. When armed with questions and curiosity, we gain knowledge and power.
Let’s start with the title of this essay, “With All Due Respect.” We may recognize it as a familiar phrase used to soften the blow when preparing to disagree with someone. It is a way to head off hard feelings with a polite
and gentle tone. Nothing wrong with the spirit of that objective. Good etiquette, morals and ethics are all about protecting against all manner of harm.
But doesn’t “due respect” imply that there is a measure of respect appropriate to the worthiness of the particular person you are addressing? If so, how would you know how much respect is due in any given instance? Are there times when respect is not due?
Frankly, we are already acting according to our personal belief system whether we are consciously aware of it or not. Take this scenario at a grocery check-out counter. There, being rung up, is a customer who is clearly of means and privilege. Impeccably coiffed hair, fine tailored suit and highend designer shoes. At first glance one can’t help but be impressed by such grace and sophistication, until, that is, the need for a price-check comes up. Suddenly the storm breaks: “Are you stupid? That is the right price! It’s right there on the sticker, for Pete’s
sake! Call the manager!” The cashier sheepishly replies, “Sorry, but that’s not what it says in the system, Ma’am…!” Clearly, the customer didn’t see the young cashier as deserving much respect. And the lady’s outburst implied that maybe she didn’t deserve as much respect as her elegant appearance invited you to think.
But in fact, don’t both the players in our little scenario deserve respect — simply because they are both human beings, each with virtues and worries of her own? Even though one of them is misbehaving?
We could despise her and withhold respect next time
we see her, but that would be a mistake. We are respecting her as she, as a human being deserves, by holding her responsible for her behavior, knowing she is capable of better. And if she never does behave better, we will consider it tragic. And that, too, is showing the appropriate respect.
You and I proudly participate in a very diverse community with many differences between us. What an opportunity to learn how to give and receive respect! (And not just during September!)
⋆ Next month: Perseverance
We are proud to have our own Catina Hartley, RN, Inpatient Therapeutic Wound Specialist, named Best Healthcare Professional by JNOW Honors
“I was so intrigued by the science and art of the field, being able to perform diagnostic testing and using evidencebased practices as well as building relationships with patients and tailoring a treatment plan unique to each person. I thank God for my tinnitus because I truly feel it was His calling for me to become an audiologist and to be able to relate to patients on a different level.”
Shortly after meeting Dr. Coates, Jordan was diagnosed with Meniere's Disease, an inner ear and vestibular disease that affects hearing and causes tinnitus and vertigo. Because of her previous work with a neurotologist physician and surgeon in Raleigh, Dr. Coates was able to recognize the signs and help her husband receive early intervention for his condition.
These experiences have allowed them to relate to their patients with a deeper level of understanding and compassion. The two combined their skills to open their clinic in Smithfield.
The motto at Coates Hearing is
“We listen, you hear!”
Ahusband and wife team have joined forces, using their unique skill sets and personal experiences to start a medical practice that has been serving Johnston, Wayne and surrounding counties since 2019.
Dr. Kathleen and Jordan Coates have different roles in running the family business, but they share one very relevant, and unlikely, thing in common: They both have hearing loss.
For Dr. Coates, it began with a ringing in her ears in college. “At the time, my pending degree was speech and hearing science,” she said. “I remember sitting in a classroom learning about tinnitus and saying to myself, ‘Wait, not everyone hears that ringing?’ After that, I met the university's clinical audiology team and they performed testing and an MRI and was diagnosed with tinnitus and high pitch hearing loss in my left ear.
“Our skill sets work really well together,” Jordan said. “She loves being an audiologist and adores her patients. And, her patients just love her. I see how much she cares for her patients; it is evident in the way that she treats them. I’ve never met someone who can make a person feel like they’ve been listened to like she can. That’s the biggest reason our clinic has grown: patients can tell our staff really cares for them.”
While Dr. Coates was gaining the education and experience needed to become an audiologist, Jordan, a Smithfield native, was developing the skills he would later use to run the business end of the practice.
“I worked for the Deacon Jones Auto Group for about 10 years,” he said. “Being a manager at Deacon Jones was one of the best things that could have happened to me in terms of preparation for running our business. That job taught me about managing employees, interacting with different types of people, coming up with creative solutions to problems and doing business the right way. I’m incredibly thankful to the Jones family for that experience.”
Coates Hearing Clinic is a full-service audiology practice that specializes in hearing, balance, cochlear implants and other audiological disciplines.
Most importantly, they pride themselves on taking the time to really get to know their patients. “We are thankful to be
Hearing loss is associated with increased risk of dementia/ Alzheimer's.
Patients with severe to profound hearing loss are nearly 5 times more likely to develop cognitive decline as they age.
New research has shown that getting treatment for hearing loss can reduce the incidence of cognitive decline.
Anyone who has Diabetes, cardiovascular issues, kidney disease, family history of hearing loss, loud noise exposure history, ringing in the ears or is over the age of 50 should go in for a baseline hearing evaluation.
Sources available upon request.
able to spend a lot of time with patients in today’s fast-paced world of healthcare. We could see many more patients if we shortened up our appointments, but that’s not in line with our mission. We believe that, if we take great care of our patients, everything else will fall into place and the practice will be successful,” said Dr. Coates.
“Hearing aids aren’t all we do, but it’s what we get asked about the most. Instead of hearing aid salespeople, like you might encounter at a chain hearing aid store, you’ll see a medical provider, a doctor of audiology, at our clinic. We
work with most insurance companies and have price-match programs for insurance discount plans, so our patients will never pay more to come here versus another practice.” Jordan said.
They have used their success to expand, opening up a second clinic in Goldsboro, and to give back to the community. “In 2023 we created the Coates Community Giving Pledge. Through this, we pledge to donate five percent of our monthly profit to local churches and nonprofits that are doing good work in Johnston and Wayne Counties and beyond,” Jordan said. You
can check out a list of these organizations at coateshearing.com/community.
They also attribute their growth and success to building an incredible team that treats their patients like family.
“I can’t stress this enough: we have an incredible staff,” said Dr. Coates.
“We learned very early that we needed to hire good people, people who are kind, in order to create an organizational culture that fosters teamwork and puts patients first. We couldn’t do any of this without them,” said Jordan.
There’s a Bible verse from Matthew posted at their front desk: “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear,” Matthew 11:15, KJV.
“That verse sums up our mission and calling. Our team has the knowledge, ability, equipment and resources to improve the lives of a lot of people through better hearing” said Dr. Coates. “We’re ready to help and here to serve our patients and their families.”
Coates Hearing has four doctors, two locations and a third one planned for next year.
For more information, please visit coateshearing.com.
By Jamie Strickland
SELMA - Present day Selma hopes to communicate with its future citizens through the contents of a time capsule, buried near Union Station as part of its 100 year anniversary celebration.
Citizens gathered as public works employees sealed and buried the capsule, and Mayor Byron McAllister read the contents of a letter he wrote to future residents that was included inside.
The letter described the current status of the town, where businesses and landmarks are currently located as well as his plans and wishes for the future of the community.
Books about Selma and Johnston County, photographs of the town as it currently stands, brochures and merchandise from local businesses and
dated articles were all included, with the hopes that future generations would appreciate the items that would later become treasures from the past.
The Centennial Celebration also included a traditional community farmers market with fresh produce and
arts and crafts, a live band, activities for children and a community pig picking.
Selma’s railroad history runs deep. The current brick and mortar building has stood in its place since 1924, located at the intersection of the North Carolina Railroad and the ACL Railroad. Due to its location at the crossroads, the building has a “V” shape and is one of the last remaining iconic structures of its kind. It still serves as an important Amtrak and freight train stop, running North to South connecting Florida and New York and west to Charlotte.
By Jamie Strickland
As National Hispanic Heritage Month begins, one local nonprofit is making sure to shine a light on the Latino community in Johnston County all year round.
Latinos Activate JoCo celebrated their one year anniversary as an official nonprofit organization on Aug. 1, and is proud to be making a difference in the community.
Founder Sergio Benitez is a business owner in downtown Selma, and saw the need for an organization to help bridge the gap between the Latino community and local opportunities and resources.
Benitez and his sisters own and operate Sola Creations
Boutique, a formal wear store specializing in attire for special occasions, such as Quinceanera, prom and wedding gowns. Because of the store’s close proximity to Selma’s town hall, Spanish speaking residents would come to Benitez and ask for help conducting business.
“The community started getting to know me, so they started coming to me, asking for help. ‘Can you come to town hall and help me get my power turned on,’ things like that. So I saw that need in the area,” he said.
Benitez, whose family moved to the U.S. from Mexico when he was a kid, was appointed to serve on the town’s event committee and began helping with the annual JoCo Latino Festival. That’s where he met Kelly Blanchard, who at the time was a Town of Selma employee.
Blanchard, who co-founded the organization with Benitez, was born and raised in Johnston County. Growing up, she witnessed unequal treatment of friends who were members of the Latino community. After returning home from college she worked at the Department of Social Services and saw firsthand the need for better connections to be built. She has since completed a master’s degree, incorporating extensive research into the impact of the Hispanic community.
The group has expanded to 23 members so far, and works to promote education, health, advocacy and cultural heritage. Their funding primarily comes from donations and they
have recently received a grant from the Peace and Democracy Fund.
Latinos Activate JoCo partners with other organizations to connect members of the Latino community with resources such as business networking, healthcare information, food assistance and engagement with schools. Benitez said helping parents interact with their children’s schools is especially important.
“We want to establish a communication line for the well-being of the school and the kids as well,” he said. “We have to educate the parents too and make sure they are involved.”
They offer entrepreneurship programs and educational workshops on topics such as SAT preparation, citizenship, advocacy, home buying and financial planning.
Blanchard said that children of Hispanic descent can sometimes lose connection with their heritage after their families relocate. “You see historically that people are treated better the more Americanized they were, so basically you were Americanized or you failed,” she said.
Their group aims to improve the quality of life and help balance their Latino heritage with their American social identity.
Latinos Activate JoCo has since taken ownership of the JoCo Latino Festival, which takes place in May each year. Its primary purpose is to showcase and promote appreciation for Latino culture and heritage.
“You see the look on their faces, they haven’t seen something like that for a long time,” Benitez said of the cultural icons that are
featured at the festival. “We’re trying to bring that back up for the new generations to come in and keep it going.”
According to Blanchard’s research, the Hispanic population has been steadily growing in Johnston County, with a current population of 37,968, and more than 25 percent of those are under age 20. Nearly 60 percent are U.S. born. As of 2020, Johnston County ranked fourth in the state for its Hispanic population share, with Hispanics making up 16.3% of its total population. Although official data has not been collected, it is estimated that more than 2,000 Latinoowned businesses are operating in Johnston County.
Running from Sept. 15Oct. 15 each year, National Hispanic Heritage month is dedicated to celebrating Hispanic and Latino history and culture. The dates fall
between the two months in order to include several significant independence day holidays in multiple Latin American countries.
This year, Blanchard said the Johnston County Heritage Center will house a Hispanic Heritage display, showcasing the history of Hispanic families in Johnston County and displaying items of cultural significance.
“We want to show that these families have been here, they came here as farm workers in the 60s and were an important part of the labor force. Now we see that evolving from laborers to business owners and we want to help them cross the barriers, help their businesses succeed and help them not feel isolated,” Blanchard said.
For more information visit their website at latinosactivatejoco.com.
September - October November - December
Submitted by: Dr. Mindi Miller-Jentes
We have been taught to believe that pain and discomfort are just a normal part of aging. Disease is to be expected as we get older, right? Wrong! While pain, discomfort and disease are common, they are not normal. Normal cellular function is the definition of health. While abnormal cellular function is the definition of discomfort and disease.
Did you know that your body has incredible regenerative abilities? Surgeons have long known your liver can completely grow back within two months if 80% of it is removed. The heart can renew itself every 15 years, bones every two years, lungs and skin every few weeks, and intestines can replace all their cells in just three days. Nerves can regenerate at a speed of an inch a month, and the brain can generate new cells at a rate of 1,500 per day. Throughout your lifetime, you could potentially grow six new bodies!
Aging happens when your body loses its ability to replace sick and dying cells with healthy, new ones. However, you can encourage new growth by simply changing your diet and lifestyle — the foods you eat, exercise, mindset, sleep and rest.
Your current biological age is just a number. What you choose to eat and how you choose to live determine how old or young you look and feel. Every day, you make choices that affect your body's health and longevity. I’m sure you’ve been told if you want to feel better cut out stress. What does that mean? Let’s break it down.
A patient’s chronic condition stems from one or a combination of three stressors: traumas, toxins and thoughts. These stressors lead to chronic inflammation in or around the
brain and spinal cord — the central nervous system. When left unaddressed, this inflammation causes cellular breakdown, leading to the degeneration and functional changes that result in discomfort. Ultimately, this process can lead to the development of diseases. Stress, stemming from traumas, toxins and thoughts can catalyze physical, mental, emotional or spiritual dysfunction. Keep this in mind the next time someone suggests you need to cut out stress.
When you begin to notice something isn’t quite right, that is the time to address the change in function. Don’t just live with it and chock it up to "getting older." That is like turning off the smoke detector when it sounds an alarm, and then going about your day while your house goes up in flames.
Holistic physicians look at the patient as a whole being not just individual systems. They spend a significant amount of time with their patients discussing positive changes to their diet and lifestyle that go well beyond pain and symptom management.
When your labs return with borderline results, it's important to address the underlying processes that may be pushing the numbers toward an
abnormal range. Holistic physicians help patients do this. Addressing new symptoms and maintaining normal function is an ongoing process. Regular maintenance care is crucial for living a long, healthy and vibrant life. Here are some simple daily steps you can take to begin to cultivate a healthier lifestyle:
Drink at least 64 ounces of filtered water.
Get at least 15 minutes of sunshine (without sunscreen).
Incorporate 30 minutes of brisk walking.
Practice meditation and visualization to promote a healthy mindset.
Engage in spiritual habits such as prayer, reading and worship.
Dr. Mindi Miller-Jentes is a board-certified holistic chiropractic physician, author of “Pain to Peace: Setting the Songbird Free,” watercolorist, speaker and mother to four adult children. She is the CEO and co-owner of Brio Wellness Center — a holistic, familyoperated chiropractic clinic in Selma, where she lives with her husband.
▸ Stroke teams at UNC Health Johnston continually strive to reduce door-to-needle times, which begin with the patient’s arrival and end with the nurse’s administration of medication to clear blood clots. From left: Aaron Andrews, Jacob Mitchell and Savannah Martin, all Johnston EMS EMTs; Mary Johnson and Jenson Norris, both RNs, and Trevor Beasley, physician assistant, worked together back in March to set a door-to-needle time of 17 minutes — a record for the Smithfield emergency department. (The Clayton ED holds an even faster time of 15 minutes.) While the American Heart Association recommends a door-to-needle time of less than 60 minutes, Johnston has set an even more aggressive goal of less than 45 minutes.
Submitted by UNC Health Johnston
SMITHFIELD — UNC Health
Johnston has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines — Stroke: GoldPlus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability.
Stroke is the fifth cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the country. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so brain cells die. Early stroke
detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery times.
Get With The Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest research- and evidence-based guidelines. Get With The Guidelines — Stroke is an in-hospital program for improving stroke care by promoting consistent adherence to these guidelines, which can minimize the longterm effects of a stroke and even prevent death.
“UNC Health Johnston is committed to improving patient care by following the latest treatment guidelines,” said chief operating officer Ruth Marler. “Get With The Guidelines makes it easier
for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which studies show can help patients recover better. The end goal is to ensure more people in our communities can live longer and with better health.”
Every year, program participants qualify for the award by demonstrating
how their organization has committed to providing quality care for stroke patients. In addition to following treatment guidelines, Get With The Guidelines participants also educate patients to help them manage their health and recovery at home.
UNC Health Johnston also received the American Heart Association’s Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus award. To qualify for this recognition, hospitals must meet specific criteria to reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with thrombolytic therapy.
In addition, the hospital received the American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award for striving to ensure patients with diabetes receive the most up-to-date, evidencebased care when hospitalized due to stroke.
Since 2021, UNC Health Johnston has been a primary stroke center, featuring a comprehensive system for rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients admitted to the emergency department.
Submitted by Johnston County Public Schools
SMITHFIELD — Micro Elementary Media Specialist Laura Warren was awarded the 2024 Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) Media Specialist Employee of the Year recently. She received the award at the Spring Special Recognition Celebration held at Cleveland High.
Warren is from Newton Grove, where her mother was also a librarian. As a child, Warren would hide under the desk at the Selma Public Library with her favorite book Leo the Late Bloomer, and read to her brother, while her mom worked. “I grew up in libraries,” she said. She also grew up seeing firsthand the importance a library has and the community it can reach.
She is a JCPS alumnus graduating from South Johnston High where, oddly enough, her mom was the school’s media specialist. A career librarian, her mother served the students of JCPS for 20 years as a media specialist at several schools, retiring in 2023 from Princeton Middle/High.
After graduating, Warren received her undergraduate degree from East Carolina University and began a career in education with Sampson County Schools, where she taught first grade for two years. In 2011, Warren joined JCPS teaching fourth grade at
Glendale-Kenly for four years. During that time, in addition to her full-time job, Warren earned a Master of Library Science on a scholarship from her alma mater, got married and started a family.
Then, in 2016 Micro Elementary was about to open its doors, and Warren couldn’t wait to get her hands on the media center. Although it was her first time as a media specialist, she was well prepared. “My library career started way before that,” she said.
Although the walls were blank, Warren’s mind was full of ideas. In an effort to change the stigma of the library as a place just for reading, the walls were painted bright colors, furniture was moved around and Warren added her special touches to create a welcoming space that was entertaining and inviting.
“I’ve been able to mold that library to what it is today,” Warren said. “There’s collaboration and communication, as well as knowledge seeking and asking questions.”
Designing a media center to create a positive atmosphere is of utmost importance, but it is merely one aspect of Warren’s role. What most people don’t realize is that being a media specialist entails much more than checking books in and out. It’s the business of creating a budget, taking out older books to make way for new ones, fixing Chromebooks and assisting with login issues.
Being named the Media Specialist Employee of the Year fills her with pride for several reasons. Warren is proud of herself for what she has accomplished, but she shares the accolades for the award with her mother. “I am proud of myself because I know my mom is proud of me,” she said. “Through me, she has fulfilled something for herself.”
Warren also credits her Micro Elementary team for their support, sensing when she needs a helping hand, and jumping in without being asked. “Knowing the impact I’ve had on my colleagues for them to nominate me for this award is wonderful,” she said.
Submitted by Girl Scouts of Troop 4159
The Girl Scouts of Troop 4159 are working on their Bronze Award. This is to prepare them for future leadership opportunities, help them grow through team building and support their community.
The goal of the project is to collect children’s books for various ages to support literacy with Partnership for Children of Johnston County. They are also accepting donations of personal care items to make hygiene kits for families in need in our area.
If you can donate books and personal care items (soap, deodorant, shampoo/ conditioner, lotion, toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, etc.), they can be donated at certain locations, or a pickup option may be available.
Drop off options:
Partnership for Children of Johnston County — 1406-A, S. Pollock St., Selma.
Dunn Public Library — 110 E. Divine St., Dunn.
Mary Duncan Public Library — 100 W. Main St., Benson.
For more information, emailgirlscouttroop4159nc@ gmail.com.
Submitted
by Johnston County Public Schools
SMITHFIELD — Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) Lead School Counselor Kim Lewter has been awarded the JCPS 2024 Employee of the Year for Curriculum, Instruction and Accountability. She has been in the position for two years and has been with the school district for 18 years. Lewter grew up in Garner and attended North Carolina State University as a North Carolina Teaching Fellow, a premier scholarship program for aspiring STEM and Special Education teachers. She later earned a Master of Education in School Counseling at Campbell University. Being a school counselor wasn’t on her radar initially. In high school, Lewter loved science, specifically biology, and planned on teaching that. “I enjoyed public school and knew I wanted to be involved in that work,” she said.
One day during an enrichment class at NCSU, a JCPS school counselor came to speak about their role in schools. At the time she was captivated by the psychology class she was taking. That interest, coupled with the JCPS school counselor’s visit, Lewter shifted her focus.
In 2006, after she graduated from Campbell University, she bought a house in Johnston County because of the proximity to the mountains, coast and family. A job opportunity came available with the school district, and Lewter began her career at West Johnston High where she spent four years as the school counselor. Then in 2010, Cleveland High opened its doors and she transitioned there spending 12 years as the school counselor.
Now as Lead Counselor, Lewter shares her knowledge and expertise with the counselors throughout the school district. Being in the schools for the majority of her
career, Lewter knows how hard everyone is working to help the children succeed. Additionally, over the last two years in the Curriculum, Instruction and Accountability Department, she has seen the intentional ways her colleagues support the children.
The most fulfilling part of her role is helping students with scholarships, internships, apprenticeships and even classes that spark their interest in potential careers.
“I enjoy connecting students with opportunities they may not have known about or not have been able to access,” she said.
She recalled one student who needed help paying for college. With her help, this student applied for a scholarship, which he got, and attended Elon University. He went to Harvard earning a master’s degree, and is now working on his doctorate. In an article written about him, he thanked the school counselor, Lewter, who helped him get the scholarship. “It will change generations in my family,” he said.
The profession has many dynamics that are critical to students’ success. Lewter sees herself as a concierge, assisting them with post-secondary educational options, parking, yearbooks and lockers. Another major role of the counselors is supporting students and families through partnerships within the community when facing mental health challenges.
“School counselors are there to support all the pieces that make up a student,” she said. “ The trust that families and students place in you is invaluable.”
Lewter knows that she can make a difference in the lives of students, their families and ultimately the community as a whole.
Even though the school district is growing exponentially, Lewter feels a closeness throughout JCPS.
“We still have that small feel where you can pick up the phone and call anyone to answer questions,” she said. Being accessible to the school counselors is of major importance to her. Even if Lewter is in a meeting, she will step out to take their calls so they feel supported.
When she found out about the award, she was in total disbelief, but like a true leader, Lewter shares the recognition with the 100 counselors she oversees. “I always want to deflect that praise back to them because they are where it’s happening,” she said. “The profession’s goal is to be a proactive leader in schools to impact change in individuals’ lives.”
Submitted by Johnston Community College
SMITHFIELD — Johnston Community College proudly presents the second Don E. and Linda Vann Lassiter Performing Arts Series at the Paul A. Johnston Auditorium, promising a spectacular season of entertainment that will captivate and inspire audiences throughout Johnston County and beyond.
Neuse Little Theater will enchant audiences with their 50th Anniversary production of the beloved classic, "The Wizard of Oz," on September 27-29.
Prepare for an evening of spine-tingling thrills as David Caserta presents "Haunted Illusions" on October 12, with performances at 3 and 7 p.m. Tickets for this supernatural spectacle are priced between $20 and $25.
The Clayton Piano Festival will celebrate the genius of Franz Liszt with Listzmania
on October 25 at 7:30 p.m. This unique event combines music and multimedia to highlight Liszt’s virtuosity. Tickets range from $20 to $25.
Country music fans will not want to miss Sammy Kershaw on November 11 at 7 p.m. Enjoy an intimate evening with the country music legend as he performs his greatest hits. Tickets are $45 to $50.
Celebrate the festive season with the Country Music Showcase on December 6-7. This heartwarming event will feature holiday cheer and country tunes in performances, and tickets are $10 to $15.
Ring in the holidays with Celtic Angels Christmas on December 16 at 7 p.m.
Experience the magic of traditional Irish music and dance. Tickets are available for $25 to $30.
Start the new year with the Grammy-winning a cappella group Take 6 on January 12 at 3 p.m. Enjoy a captivating
performance with tickets priced between $35 and $40.
Laugh along with comedian Karen Morgan on February 15 at 7 p.m. Her wit and charm will light up the stage with tickets ranging from $15 to $20.
The season ends with a family-friendly adventure with "Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey" on April 4 with a school performance at noon and a public performance at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12.50 to $15.
Tickets for all performances are one sale now at johnstoncc.edu/ performingarts. Or call the Box Office at 919-209-2099.
Submitted by Town of Clayton
CLAYTON — The Clayton Police Department is proud to announce the graduation of its 2024 Teen Academy class, where young recruits traded in their summer plans for a badge of honor.
In July, 16 local students ages 13-18, received an introduction to the inner workings of law enforcement.
“I wanted to learn a lot about the judicial system, learn what police do,” said Diego Cruz, 15. “I was also trying to learn some things about EMS because recently my sister graduated for nursing and EMS, so I wanted to learn a little bit about what she does.”
Cruz, a sophomore at Clayton High School, plans to apply what he learned at the 2024 Teen Academy and pursue a potential career in cybersecurity. He and his fellow students were immersed in various aspects of law enforcement, including:
Role playing scenarios, such as conducting traffic stops and communicating as 911 dispatchers
K9 unit demonstrations
Physical agility tests (timed runs, push ups, and sit ups)
Crime scene and evidence collection
In addition, students took a field trip to the Johnston County Courthouse, Johnston County Detention Center and Johnston County 911 Communications Center.
“I’ve seen some young and intelligent kids come out of their shells,” said 2024 Teen Academy Organizer and Clayton Police Officer Randolph Baity. “On their first day, they were very apprehensive, very shy and timid. By day three, after going through some of our scenarios, presentations and activities that we have, they were fully engaged and interacting. ‘Pick me, pick me!’ Really participating.”
The program aims to promote responsible citizenship among young
people, foster positive interactions between youth and police officers, educate them about the challenges and responsibilities of police work and inspire young people to take an active role in their community.
“It’s been good to see them interact with us because they get to see us in a different light,” said Clayton Police Sergeant Isaiah Ruffin. “Typically, when they see us out on the street, they’re a little more standoffish. Being able to interact with them on this level, it brings a little bit more normality. It lets them see that we are in fact human like they are. We are very approachable. We talk. We converse. We laugh. We joke. We’re all the same human
beings, regardless of whether we wear a uniform or not.”
Kathren Massey, 17, enjoyed building rapport with officers from the Clayton Police Department.
“I’ve always had a love of law enforcement,” she said. “It’s just how I was raised. I’ve always wanted to do this — ever since I was a little kid. I grew up on ‘Live PD.’ My dad and I would sit and watch it for hours, so I’ve always had a deep respect for law enforcement.”
Massey, a senior at Clayton High School, hopes to get into Basic Law Enforcement Training at Johnston Community College and return to the Clayton Police Department as an employee.
“Thank you to the Clayton Police Department for allowing us to come here and experience this,” she said. “It has given me a dream that I’m going to try my best to achieve in the future.”
Mon.-Sat. 10-5 p.m. Sunday 1-5 p.m
Submitted by NACAA
DALLAS — Two Johnston County residents were honored by the National Association of County Agriculture Agents recently. Marshall Warren received the Achievement Award from the NACAA during the 2024 Annual Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference recently, while Tim Britton took home the Distinguished Service Award.
Warren was recognized for his outstanding achievements serving as the Commercial and Consumer Horticulture Agent in Johnston County for the past eight years. He is viewed as an expert by commercial horticultural businesses and residents of Johnston County. He has established a large and vibrant Master Gardener program that
expands the reach of cooperative extension and provides educational programs emphasizing best management practices to meet the many challenges green industry professionals face.
Britton has been a field crop agent for 15 years, specializing in row crop production. He focuses on troubleshooting field crop issues and providing quality educational training to the growers of Johnston County.
9/6 West Johnston at Cleveland
9/13 Princeton at Rosewood
9/20 Smithfield-Selma at South Johnston
9/27 Garner at Clayton
10/4 CB Aycock at South Johnston
10/11 Fuquay-Varina at Corinth Holders
10/18 Southeast Raleigh at Cleveland
10/25 Eastern Wayne at North Johnston
11/1 North Johnston at Princeton
SCAN HERE FOR MULE DAYS SCHEDULE
A TIME HONORED TRADITION FOR SCHEDULE
Submitted by Johnston County Public Schools
— Montavia Heath, a ten-year veteran with Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS), was named JCPS 2024 Administrative and Auxiliary Services Employee of the Year recently.
A Johnston County native and proud JCPS graduate, Heath has spent all but seven years of his life here. During that time, his family lived in New York when he was a small child. Once they returned, Heath briefly attended Selma Elementary before going to Cleveland Elementary, then Cleveland Middle. His family moved and Heath graduated from West Johnston in 2014. “I am Johnston County through and through,” he said.
After high school, Heath began studying to obtain an elementary education degree. That was due to Ms. Broadway, a teacher at Cleveland Middle.
“She is the real reason why I jumped into education,” he said. With the school district for 10 years now, Heath began as a bus driver, then went into the classroom as a teacher assistant at West View Elementary. While there, a lot of things came into focus for him. At one point, he was a teacher assistant for kindergarten, and that’s when Heath knew he’d found his niche. Also during his time at West View Elementary, he worked with Lisa Estep, an Exceptional Children (EC) teacher. “She had a major impact on my life,” he said. She was there for Heath while he was working and studying for his degree, and then for his transition to his current role.
In 2019, Heath became the bus coordinator for the Smithfield-Selma area, which consisted of four elementary schools, two middle schools and Smithfield-Selma High. Heath has gone from overseeing eight bus-only drivers to 33, some of
whom have never been involved in an educational setting. When working with new drivers, Heath’s goals are to make sure they’re happy with what they’re doing, they enjoy coming to work and that they feel supported. “It’s a big deal for me,” he said.
Over the years, Heath has utilized a lot of the strategies learned during his time and training in the classroom to extend to the drivers when dealing with students. “We’re here to get the students to and from school safely each day,” he said. But being a bus driver is not just about transportation. Drivers often function as moms, dads and nurses to the children they serve, and love them as if they were their own.
Heath still drives buses when needed, which he enjoys because of the student interactions. “I love watching the kiddos grow and flourish,” he said. Anytime he is at one of his schools, he will make every effort to pop in to say hello to the children. He also participates in Read Across America, reading books to them.
Receiving the JCPS 2024 Administrative and Auxiliary Services Employee of the Year Award was a big surprise.
“I’m so thankful for the opportunity to have that title given to me,” Heath said.
He sees it not as an individual recognition, but as an acknowledgment of his team’s daily commitment and responsibility to the students of JCPS. The award also reinforces his desire to reach and empower students while instilling bus safety.
“I love it so much,” Heath said. “I’m here to make a difference.”
Submitted by Latinos Activate JOCO
SELMA — Latinos Activate JOCO is thrilled to announce the presentation of a $500 check to My Kid’s Club to support the membership fees for 50 children in their after-school programs for the upcoming school year.
“We are honored to support My Kid’s Club. Their dedication to positively impacting the lives of children in our community, especially within the Latino community, aligns perfectly with our mission to promote equity and inclusion,” said Kelly Blanchard, co-founder of Latinos Activate JOCO.
This contribution underscores the importance of supporting community programs that significantly assist children with their educational needs. My Kid’s Club has been a cornerstone in the community, providing invaluable support to children, particularly those from the Latino community.
By offering a safe and nurturing environment for after-school activities. My Kid’s Club ensures children can
access educational resources, enrichment programs and mentorship. These programs are instrumental in fostering academic success and personal development.
Saaraim Lara Cerna, VP of Community Relations for Latinos Activate JOCO, said, “The best feeling is seeing someone having the opportunity I didn’t have and me being able to give them those opportunities make my heart full. Thank you to the supporters to help make this happen.”
The after-school programs at My Kid’s Club provide a variety of activities that cater to the diverse interests and needs of children, including tutoring, arts and crafts, sports and community service projects. These programs not only help in improving academic performance but also in building social skills and selfconfidence among the children.
Dianna Powell, VP of Fundraising said, “To be able to see firsthand, the works of My Kids Club is exciting. I can’t help but think of how the kids
in our community would’ve otherwise spent their summer. The laughter and learning taking place speaks volumes.”
Latinos Activate JOCO remains committed to investing in initiatives that enhance the quality of life for Latino families and the broader Johnston County community. The organization
looks forward to seeing the positive impact of this contribution on the children who benefit from My Kid’s Club’s programs.
“Always give without remembering and always receive without forgetting,”
Sergio Benitez, President and Co-founder of Latinos Activate JOCO, said.
Submitted by Johnston Community College
SMITHFIELD — Johnston Community College is celebrating a historic milestone, having reached recordbreaking enrollment figures for the third consecutive semester. The college has enrolled 5,708 degreeseeking students at the start of the fall semester, marking an increase of nearly one thousand students compared to last fall, which was also a landmark moment for the college as it saw its first doubledigit increase in enrollment.
Applications to JCC have surged by 18 percent from last fall, reflecting a growing demand for affordable and high-quality education.
"We are thrilled to have so many new and returning students join the JCC community," said JCC President Dr. Vern L. Lindquist. "This growth demonstrates the strong appeal of our programs, the value of our education and the trust
Submitted by My Kid’s
Club
SELMA — My Kid's Club proudly announces the 48th Annual Selma Railroad Run 5K on Saturday, September 14 at 8:30 a.m.
As the oldest 5K in North Carolina, the event marks the kick off for Selma's Railroad Days Festival. It offers participants a chance to experience a fast, flat and USATF-certified course through downtown Selma.
Since its inception in 1976, the Selma Railroad Run 5K has drawn runners
and walkers of all ages. All proceeds from the event support My Kid's Club's mission to provide essential after-school and summer camp programming that benefits more than 150 local students aged 6-16 each year. These programs aim to build the skills and attitudes necessary for academic success and career readiness.
that students and their families place in us. As we continue to expand our reach and improve our offerings, we are poised to transform even more lives through education."
Several factors have contributed to this enrollment boom, including initiatives that make higher education more accessible.
Nearly one thousand recent high school graduates are attending JCC tuition-free, thanks to the JoCo Commissioners Promise, a program that provides last-dollar funding. Additionally, the NEXT NC scholarship program offers free community college tuition to households earning less than $80,000 per year, significantly lowering the financial barriers for prospective students.
“We are committed to providing quality education and support to our students, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college,” Dr. Lindquist said. “With these new resources and initiatives, JCC is becoming a leader in affordable education and opportunity.”
To learn more about enrollment opportunities and financial aid, visit www.johnstoncc.edu.
“We are thrilled to continue this long-standing tradition, which not only brings our community together, but also directly supports our mission to empower local youth," said Lynn Stanley, Interim Executive Director of My Kid's Club. "Every step taken during this race helps us provide essential programs
that make a real difference in the lives of our students."
For more information, registration and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.mykidsclub.org.
Submitted by Johnston County Cooperative Extension
SMITHFIELD — Johnston County Center, NC Cooperative Extension, is proud to highlight the remarkable summer experience of its intern, Chloé Sharpe. Over the summer, she has gained invaluable knowledge, built lasting connections and made significant contributions to the JoCo community through many impactful projects. Sharpe, a Johnston County native, is a rising junior at North Carolina State, majoring in agroecology and minoring in extension education and nutrition.
Working closely with her supervisor, Nicole Youngblood, she experienced a workplace culture that emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking and a balance between hard work and fun. This supportive atmosphere enabled her to thrive and develop both personally and professionally. Throughout her internship, she engaged in a variety of
the rapidly developing county. She will go on to continue working with this project as part of an undergraduate research opportunity.
Strawberry and Blueberry Grower Surveys: Sharpe gathered essential data from local growers, aiding in grant submissions and providing valuable insights for future agricultural planning.
Peanut Recipe Card: Working with the North Carolina Peanut Growers Association (NCPGA) intern, Lily McLamb, they were able to gather and construct plans for an informative recipe card to promote local peanuts and their culinary uses.
operations, plant disease diagnostics and marketing, she gained a well-rounded perspective on the agricultural sector.
Sharpe expressed her gratitude for the transformative experience at the Johnston County Extension Office.
“This internship has been a cornerstone in my personal and professional development,” she said. “The knowledge and connections I have gained here will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors in agriculture and beyond.”
projects that showcased her skills and dedication:
Farmer Appreciation Social Media Campaign: This major project aimed to introduce farmers to consumers and create connections via social media. Collaborating with Carolina Packers, Home of the Bright Leaf Hot Dog, the campaign featured videos and posts highlighting local farmers. This project has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community. Sharpe took the reins as camera person and video editor of the project. This Farmers Feast Series can be found on the JoCo Grows Agriculture Facebook and Instagram pages with full-length interviews and entertainment on the JoCo Grows YouTube channel.
Consumer Perceptions of Agriculture in Johnston County Survey Study: In collaboration with Dr. Katie Sanders and Youngblood, this ongoing study aims to bridge the gap between farmers and consumers by understanding public perceptions of agriculture in
This internship not only allowed Sharpe to develop her skills in social media management, video production and digital communication but also deepened her agricultural knowledge. Through handson experiences in field crop
“Chloe has been an outstanding addition to the Johnston County Extension Team this summer. She has added depth to our programs and has touched the public through her video production skills. She is an outstanding young person that I know will do great things in her career,” said Bryant Spivey, County Extension Director.
four-year anniversary to US!
123 N. Raiford
Monday, Sept. 2, 9 a.m.
Friday, Sept. 6, 6 p.m.
⋆ Homestead Tours and U-Pick Flowers
→ The Homestead at Little Creek, Little Creek Church Road, Clayton
Add your organization’s events to the community calendar at www.JohnstonNow.com or email us at calendar@JohnstonNow.com. For the full community calendar with hundreds of area events, visit www.JohnstonNow.com
Come out for a fun day at the farm, where you can tour the homestead and pick your own beautiful flowers to take home. Explore the property and learn about the journey in starting up a family business. During the guided tour, learn about flower farming, raising chickens, sheep, goats and pigs. Tours are $10 per person. To learn more, visit homesteadatlittlecreek@ gmail.com.
Sept. 6-8
⋆ Family Campout
→ Lakeside Retreats, Mail Plantation Road, Raleigh Lakeside Retreats Family Campout is more than just a camping trip; it’s a chance to build stronger family connections, enjoy various activities, enjoy nature and have a whole lot of fun! To register or to learn more, visit casualcampout.com.
Friday, Sept. 6, 8 a.m.
⋆ Good Morning Clayton
→ Clayton Chamber of Commerce, Main Street, Clayton
Start your morning off in Clayton by networking, sharing your business news, giving your 30-second pitch to a packed room and leaving with new contacts and deeper relationships with peers in the Clayton community. Hosted by Davis Auto Detailing.
⋆ Downtown Clayton Concert Series: Kids in America
End the Summer Concert Series in the 80s in Downtown Clayton. A totally 80s experience takes over Town Square when Kids in America takes the stage. Kids In America isn’t just a band; it’s a musical odyssey that started with a shared passion for the unforgettable decade of the 80s. Plan to spend this evening in Downtown Clayton with the shopping and dining you love, plus food trucks, beer, wine and more once the concert starts.
Saturday, Sept. 7, 10 a.m
⋆ Maxie's Dog Fest
→ Benson Singing Grove
This event is to raise awareness for adoption in our community. Dogs are often placed in shelters awaiting new, furever homes and don't receive them. Carolina Animal Network will have some of our adoptable dogs at this event.Learn more at facebook.com/ events/758835679567984.
Saturday, Sept. 7, 4 p.m.
⋆ Hello Fall Paint Event
→ Art Time Studio, Technology Drive, Garner
Unleash your creativity at Art Time Studios Hello Fall paint event. Celebrate the arrival of autumn with a fun and engaging painting class. The studio provides all the materials you need, including a take-home canvas for each participant. Cost is $35. Learn more at facebook.com/ events/504113608820939.
Monday, Sept 9, 6 p.m.
⋆ Basics of Bookkeeping (virtual)
→ JCC Small Business Center
Keeping your finances in order is vital for any business. If you're a new small business owner or a potential small business owner, this webinar is designed for you. Presenter Dennis Watts will help you gain a beginning basic workable knowledge of how to properly record financial transactions for your small business. Learn about the three most important financial reports and get an overview of how to use them to make the best-informed business decisions. Learn more at ncsbc.net/workshop. aspx?ekey=280440035.
Saturday, Sept. 14, 9 a.m.
⋆ POW/MIA Ride
→ Bulldog Harley Davidson, Carolina Premium Outlets
The AFSA Chapter 371 and Bulldog Harley Davidson are hosting a motorcycle ride in honor of all Prisoners Of War and those Missing In Action. In addition to the ride, there will be live music with food and drinks for purchase and a chance to win raffle prizes. The cost is $20 per bike and $10 for each additional rider. Learn more at facebook.com/ events/847799316849828.
Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m.
⋆ Watercolors on the Farm Painting Workshop
→ Handpicked Nursery, Ennis Road, Benson Paint a gorgeous farm scene or some fresh produce with an experienced local artist.
In this experience you'll join long-time painter and watercolor expert Gina Huitt as she takes her time teaching you the craft of watercolors and helping you capture the subject or skyline through your own eyes. The cost is $37, and tickets are available here: peoplefirsttourism.com/ experience/watercolorson-the-farm-paintingworkshop-at-handpickednursery-09-14-2024.
Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m.
⋆ 10th annual H.E.L.P. Conference
→ The Clayton Center For the past decade, the H.E.L.P. Conference has delivered impactful resources to women — focusing on health, empowerment, love and purpose. This is a transformative experience with a variety of workshops, networking opportunities and community collaborations. Tickets are $35 (includes lunch from Smithfield Chicken and BBQ) and can be purchased here: bit.ly/HELP2024. For more information about the event, contact Tina Bailey at info@ tinabaileyonline.com.
Saturday, Sept 14, 10 a.m.
⋆ Four Oaks Acorn Festival
→ Barbour’s Grove Park
The 35th Annual Four Oaks Acorn Festival is a fun filled and lively event that brings together the entire community from near and far for a day of fun and excitement. It will feature a car, truck, motorcycle show and swap meet to the festival. The kid zone features
new rides and the Carolina Hurricanes Storm Tour. Rivenbark Ministries is the featured entertainment. Lots of shopping can be done at our the Market in Barbour’s Grove Park. Meet local businesses at the Business Expo and eat to your heart's content at the many food trucks and local restaurants.
Saturday, Sept. 14, 2 p.m.
⋆ Clayton BBQ Challenge
→ Downtown Clayton
Visit Downtown Clayton from 2-6 p.m. for a fun afternoon with three community favorites: bands, beer and barbecue! Learn more at facebook.com/ events/1449924819047951.
Saturday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m.
⋆ Little Miss Benson Pageant
→ W.J. Barefoot Auditorium, East Church Street, Benson For tickets: Contact Jenny's Sweet Creations at 919-2070381. Sponsored by Benson Area Women’s Organization.
Saturday, Sept. 14, 7 p.m.
⋆ Love Sick Drifters in concert
→ Rudy Theatre, Raiford Street, Selma
Catch the Love Sick Drifters, a Hank Williams, Sr. tribute band, live at the Rudy. Tickets are available here: ci.ovationtix.com/35938/ production/1181443.
Monday, Sept. 16, 6 p.m.
⋆ Your Small Business Taxes (virtual)
→ JCC Small Business Center Be Prepared for Tax Season. This webinar is important for both new and experienced
business owners. Presenter Dennis Watts will help you gain a solid understanding of taxes required for small business owners and develop the best tax strategy for your business. You'll become familiar with the latest tax forms and procedures for both state and federal taxes and discover how everyday business decisions can have tax implications that can affect your bottom line. Learn more at ncsbc.net/workshop. aspx?ekey=280440036.
Wednesday, Sept. 18, 6 p.m.
⋆ Small Business Full Insurance Coverage: Are You Really Covered? (virtual)
→ JCC Small Business Center Many small business owners operate under the misconception that full coverage means total protection from all risks. This class with Matthew Gorman, Gorman Group Insurance, LLC, will: Debunk the myth of full coverage and explain what it truly means to be covered, teach about the various types of insurance policies available and more. To register, visit www.ncsbc.net/workshop. aspx?ekey=280440042.
Thursday, Sept. 19, 5:30 p.m.
⋆ Business Associates Social Hour
→ Chefella's Catering & Event Planning, Main Street, Clayton
Enjoy the Clayton Chamber’s popular monthly evening networking event while exploring the area. The
September BASH sponsor is Chefellas Catering & Event Planning. Bring your business cards and be ready to mix and mingle while enjoying light refreshments. This event is free for CCOC investors (members) and their guests.
Thursday, Sept. 19, 5:30 p.m.
⋆ Rockin On Raiford Concert Series
→ Raiford Street, Selma Food Trucks will begin serving at 5:30 and music from North Tower Band will start at 6. Visit activateselma.com to find out more details.
Friday, Sept. 20, 8 a.m.
⋆ 37th Annual Benson Mule Days Golf Tournament
→ Reedy Creek Golf Course, Reedy Creek Road, Four Oaks For details, call 919-8943825. Sign up at bensonnc. chambermaster.com/ eventregistration/register/1266.
Saturday, Sept. 21, 9 a.m.
⋆ Flower Block Quilting Class
→ Tobacco Farm Life Museum, N.C. 301, Kenly Mollie Renfrow will be providing a flower block quilting class once monthly, guiding attendees each class through a quilt block featuring a heritage flower based off of a historic original. At the end of class the blocks will be joined to make the completed
quilt! Pre-registration is required. Visit www. tobaccofarmlifemuseum.org to find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m
⋆ Capturing Beauty with Watercolors: A Workshop with Gina Huitt
→ Old North State Food Hall, JR Road, Selma
Few activities bring you into the present moment quite like painting what's right in front of you. Check out an inspiring watercolor workshop in collaboration with Gina Huitt at Old North State Food Hall. The beginner class, from 10-11:30, will focus on painting sunflowers while the advanced class, from noon to 2 p.m., will challenge you with painting a house. All supplies are included for the beginner class. Advanced class participants are asked to bring their own watercolor set. Cost is $40, and tickets are available here: peoplefirsttourism.com/ experience/capturing-beautywith-watercolors-a-workshopwith-gina-huitt-09-21-2024.
Saturday, Sept. 21, noon
⋆ Woofstock
→ Deep River Brewing Company, Main Street, Clayton
Bring your pooches to Deep River for a day full of peace, love and dogs! There will be dog vendors, live music, a groovy pup contest, a pup ice cream eating contest and more. Learn more at: facebook.com/ events/801361368847775.
Monday, Sept. 23, 6 p.m.
⋆ Marketing Your Small Business (virtual)
→ JCC Small Business Center
Successful marketing and a solid market plan are a great way to start your small business. Many small businesses will not take time for planning. This webinar from the Johnston Community College Small Business Center will help you get started with a plan that fits your small business. Visit www.ncsbc.net/ reg.aspx?mode=event&event =280440037 to register.
Sept. 26-29
⋆ Benson Mule Days
The largest annual festival in Johnston County is back. Enjoy daily vendors, food trucks, a carnival, concerts, rodeos and more. Visit bensonmuledays. com for a complete schedule.
Thursday, Sept. 26, 6 p.m.
⋆ Benson Mule Days concerts
→ Benson Singing Grove
Kick off Benson Mule Days with the Amy Jae Band, Little Texas and Brodie Cormack.
Reserved Seating at the front of the stage is $20 per person. General seating (bring your own chair) is free.
Friday, Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m.
⋆ 75th Annual Bleecker
Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram SRA Rodeo
→ Chamber Park Arena, J Lee Road, Benson
Presented in Memory of Willis McLamb and by SRA Double Creek Pro Rodeo Company. Featuring Clown Mike Wentworth and announcer Mark Northall. Ages 5 and under are free,
while ages 6 and older are $25 per person (includes admission to the dance). Visit rodeosportsnetwork.com or call 919-894-3825 for more information.
Saturday, Sept. 28, 10 a.m.
⋆ 75th Annual Mule Days Parade
→ Downtown Benson
Don’t miss the annual Mule Days Parade, sponsored by WRAL.
Saturday, Sept. 28, 12 p.m.
⋆ Happy Halloween Paint Event
→ Art Time Studio, Technology Drive, Garner
Unleash your creativity at Art Time Studio’s Happy Halloween paint event, open to all ages! The studio provides all the materials you need, including a take-home canvas for each participant. Cost is $35, and more details are available at facebook.com/ events/7431527746948368.
Saturday, Sept. 28, 5 p.m.
⋆ 2024 Miss Selma Railroad Days Pageant
→ Rudy Theatre, Raiford Street, Selma
Don’t miss the 2024 Miss Selma Railroad Days Pageant at The Rudy Theatre in Downtown Selma. Applications are available at Selmarailroaddays. com.
Saturday, Sept. 28, 6 p.m.
⋆ Rivers Crossing Bluegrass Band
→ Center Street, Princeton
Rivers Crossing Bluegrass Band will be in concert, hosted by Princeton Area Library Supporters and sponsored by the Johnston
County Arts Council. For more, visit facebook.com/ events/1200119951305909.
Saturday, Sept. 28, 7 p.m.
⋆ Guy Penrod in concert
→ The Clayton Center
Multi award-winning vocalist and Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductee Guy Penrod is appearing at The Clayton Center. For ticket information, visit theclaytoncenter.com/ calendar.aspx?EID=1611.
Monday, Sept. 30, 6 p.m.
⋆ Starting a Small Business (virtual)
→ JCC Small Business Center
This online webinar is designed to educate existing and prospective small business owners on the overview of steps and processes that should be followed when starting a new small business in North Carolina. To register, visit ncsbc.net/ reg.aspx?mode=event&event =280440038.
Wilson's Mills Farmers Market
Homegrown vegetables, handmade crafts and household items, fresh baked goods, and more! This event occurs every first and third Saturday now through the end of October!
Contact: www.wilsonsmillsnc. org/parks-events
NAMI Support Groups and Classes
The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers free weekly support groups throughout
Johnston County. Contact: www.namijcnc.net, email namijcnc@gmail.com or call 919-980-5277.
Every Wednesday, 6 p.m.
⋆ Smithfield-Selma Running Club
The Vault by Hatchet Brewing, Selma Contact: smithfieldrunningclub @gmail.com.
Second and Fourth Tuesdays, 7 a.m.
⋆ Cleveland School Rotary Club
→ Cleveland Draft House, Garner Contact: www. clevelandschoolrotary.org
Every Tuesday, 10 a.m.
⋆ Smithfield Ukulele Group.
→ First Presbyterian Church, 215 S. 3rd St., 2nd Floor Come join the fun in this ukulele/guitar/dulcimer group. Contact: 919-634-4800
Every Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
⋆ Smithfield Kiwanis Club Meeting
→ Golden Corral, Smithfield Contact: www.facebook.com/ KiwanisClubOfSmithfieldNC
Every Tuesday, 7-9:30 p.m.
⋆ Civil Air Patrol Meeting
→ Johnston Regional Airport Contact: www.facebook.com/ JocoCadetSquadron
Every Wednesday, 9 a.m.
⋆ Activate Selma
The meeting location rotates around different locations in Selma each week. Follow on Facebook to see this week's location. Contact: www. activateselmanc.com.
Every Wednesday, 2 p.m.
⋆ Trivia Party
→ Clayton Center for Active Aging
Contact: 919-295-9163 to play. For more information, contact the center at 919553-4350.
First and third Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.
⋆ Smithfield Lions Club
→ Golden Corral, Smithfield
Contact: Jana Peedin, 919934-1913
First and third Thursdays, 6:45 p.m.
⋆ Clayton Civitan Club meeting
→ Clayton Civitan Building, McCullers St., Clayton
Contact: 919-550-0694
First and third Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.
⋆ Fellowship Masonic Lodge #84 meeting
→ Fellowship Masonic Lodge #84, S. Brightleaf Blvd., Smithfield
Contact: Grover Dees at gdees1@nc.rr.com.
First Tuesday, Noon
⋆ Clayton Visual Arts meeting
→ The Clayton Center Contact: www.
claytonvisualarts.org or email CVA president Bronwen Fullington at bronwen. fullington@gmail.com.
Second Monday, 6 p.m.
⋆ PACT meeting
→ Virtual Meeting via Google Meet
Contact: Jeff Holland at hollandjeff@yahoo.com.
Second Wednesday, 11:30 a.m.
⋆ Johnston County Chapter of National Association of Active and Retired Federal Employees meeting
→ Golden Corral, Smithfield
Contact: jimnow42@gmail.com.
Second Wednesday, noon
⋆ The Woman’s Club of Clayton meeting
→ TWCC building, Church St., Clayton
Contact: twccnc.org or email sbrooks@twccnc.org.
Second Thursday, 6 p.m.
⋆ Triangle East Writers
Contact: Email admin@ triangleeastwriters.com.
Every other Monday, 6 p.m.
⋆ Kiwanis Club of Clayton
→ Virtual meeting
Contact: www.facebook.com/ ClaytonKiwanis to learn more.
Third Monday, 7 p.m.
⋆ Vietnam Veterans of America
→ Smithfield American Legion Post 132
The Smithfield Chapter 990 meeting of the Vietnam Veterans of America is every third Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
Third Monday, 6:30 p.m.
⋆ Johnston County Beekeepers Association meeting
→ Johnston County Ag Center
Contact: www.jocobee.org or email JCBAPresident@jocobee. org.
Third Tuesday, 12:30 p.m.
⋆ Widowed Persons Fellowship Group
→ Parkside Cafe, Pine Level
Contact: 919-965-3865
Third Tuesday
⋆ Johnston County AfricanAmerican Caucus meeting
→ 1302 W. Market St., Smithfield
Contact: AACJCDP.chair@gmail. com or call 954-696-7833.
Third Thursday
⋆ Johnston County Republican Women
Contact: jcrwrocks@gmail. com.
Fourth Monday, 6:30 p.m.
⋆ Disabled American Veterans meeting
→ Smithfield DAV, Buffalo Road
Smithfield Chapter 44 of the Disabled American Veterans meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
Every Thursday, 6:45 a.m.
⋆ Clayton Rotary Morning Club
→ Rainbow Lanes
Contact: www. claytonrotaryclub.org.
Every Thursday, 6:15 p.m.
⋆ Clayton Area Toastmasters meetings
→ JCC Workforce Development Center
Contact: www.claytontm.com.
First Thursday, 6:30 p.m.
⋆ Four Oaks American Legion meeting
→ American Legion Building, Hwy. 301, Four Oaks All veterans are encouraged to attend the monthly meeting of Four Oaks American Legion Post 346 on the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
Fourth Thursday, 6 p.m.
⋆ Caring Hearts Civitan Club
→ Cleveland Draft House, Shotwell Road, Clayton
Contact: grahamhound1966@ gmail.com.
