News

JCPS celebrates with Topping Out ceremony for Wilson’s Mills High

SMITHFIELD, NC - On Wednesday, April 9, 2025, Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) celebrated the completion of the structural framework of the new Wilson’s Mills High with a beam signing and topping out ceremony.    The event was hosted by Barnhill Contracting Company, the general contractors of the Wilson’s Mills High project. Attendees included alumni of the original Wilson’s Mills High, community members, Town of Wilson’s Mills employees, Johnston County Board of Education members, JCPS

Boys & Girls Clubs of Johnston County Youth Explore Creativity Through Art with Local Artist Percil

Smithfield, NC & Selma, NC – April 2025 – The Boys & Girls Clubs of Johnston County recently held a series of art sessions led by local artist Percilla Williams at the Smithfield and Selma Club locations. The sessions allowed Club members to explore women’s history through art while learning to express their creativity and identity through painting.  Thanks to Grassroots Grants awarded by the Johnston County Arts Council and the North Carolina Arts Council, youth were allowed to participate in hands-on

Johnston County Hosting Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event

Smithfield, NC – This year's spring cleaning just got easier! Johnston County's Household Hazardous Waste Collection event is back on Saturday, April 26 from 8:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. Residents can safely dispose of items that don't belong in trash or recycling by using the free drive-thru service at the Johnston County Livestock Arena.    Whether it’s oil-based paints, old pesticides, fluorescent bulbs, pharmaceuticals or automotive fluids, our staff will be on site to help unload hazardous materials from

NC Author Barbara Presnell to lead memoir writing workshops May 8-10 in Johnston County

NC Author Barbara Presnell to lead memoir writing workshops May 8-10 in Johnston CountyOn May 8 – 10, Barbara Presnell, author of the newly published Otherwise, I’m Fine: A Memoir (University of South Carolina Press) will lead three memoir writing workshops, an informal coffee with the author, and book-signing in Johnston County, North Carolina. All events are free, and open to the public, especially for veterans and their families, thanks to sponsors Neuse River Writers and the Johnston County Arts

Triangle East Economic Development Foundation Hosts Discussion on Workforce Housing Solutions

The Triangle East Economic Development Foundation and the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce hosted Workforce Housing: Understanding the Challenge, Creating Solutions, the Foundation’s inaugural event, addressing workforce housing challenges and their impact on local businesses. The event took place at First Baptist Church of Smithfield on April 1st. Panelists included: Jill Homan, President of Javelin 19 InvestmentsErica Leatham, Vice President, Land, M/I HomesApril Stephens, Owner, The April Stephens

Leigh Anne Price Sworn in as President of the North Carolina Association of Directors of Elections

Smithfield, NC – Leigh Anne Price has been elected president of the NC Association of Directors of Elections (NCADE). Price was sworn in on Monday, March 24, 2025, during the organization's conference in Durham, NC. Price has served as Vice President of the NCADE for two years and has extensive experience in election administration. She currently serves as the director of elections for Johnston County, North Carolina, where she is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the election process.   As

AI and the Future of Work

To paraphrase Mark Twain, reports of the “end of work” have been greatly exaggerated – more than once. Throughout history, the arrival of new technology has been regarded as a threat to human work and, in every instance, new technology has been integral to unlocking new work, new value, and rising incomes. This hopeful view is not the same thing, however, as saying that new technology, like artificial intelligence, will be all upside for every worker, all the time, everywhere. The recent report from the

Understanding eCommerce: A Guide for Small Business Owners

Ready to take your small business online? This webinar will equip you with the tools and strategies to successfully launch and manage your online store. This webinar will cover the essentials of eCommerceChoosing the right platformMarketing your productsManaging orders Learn how to reach new customers and grow your business in the digital world. Read more here.

Celebrating Excellence in Education: Johnston County’s 2025 Flame for Learning Semifinalists Announced

The Johnston County Coalition of Chambers is pleased to announce the twenty semifinalists who have been selected for their excellence in the classroom. These exceptional educators have demonstrated creativity, innovation, and dedication to shaping the future of Johnston County students. The Teacher of the Year will be named during the 31st Annual Flame for Learning Award Ceremony on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM EST at The Barn at Broadslab, located at 4676 NC Highway 50 South, Benson, NC

Invest in Great Futures: Support the Boys & Girls Club of Johnston County

Selma, NC, Smithfield, NC – March 2025 – Every day, thousands of children in Johnston County finish school with nowhere safe to go. Many lack access to academic support, mentorship, and essential life skills training without structured after-school and summer programs. The Boys & Girls Club of Johnston County is dedicated to changing this by providing a safe, supportive environment where young people can learn, grow, and prepare for the future. With the generosity of community members, local businesses,

Boys & Girls Club of Johnston County Commemorates Black History Month with Inspiring Speaker Series

Selma and Smithfield, NC – March 2025 – The Boys & Girls Club of Johnston County celebrated Black History Month with an enriching Speaker Series, engaging youth through powerful narratives from local leaders, educators, and professionals. The month-long initiative was designed to promote leadership, perseverance, and personal growth, offering club members valuable insights into the contributions of African Americans to history and society.  A highlight of the series was a visit from Town of Selma Mayor

Chick-fil-A Smithfield Launches “Cookies for Community” Initiative to Support Boys & Girls Club of J

Smithfield, NC – March 2025 – In a commitment to fostering youth development and community engagement, Chick-fil-A Smithfield has partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Johnston County for the “Cookies for Community” initiative. Throughout March, 10 percent of all cookie sales will be donated to the Boys & Girls Club, directly supporting programs that empower local children and teens.  Serving more than 200 young people, ages 6-14, the Boys & Girls Club of Johnston County provides essential resources to

Junior Women's League to Host 10th Annual Big Night Out: Bingo Night

Smithfield, N.C. – The Junior Women’s League of Smithfield will host its 10th annual Big Night Out: Bingo Night, proudly presented by Bingo Champion sponsor Coates Hearing Clinic, to be held at The Great Hall in the Tart Building/Paul A. Johnston Auditorium at Johnston Community College on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. This year’s Big Night Out marks a special milestone as the League celebrates a decade of making a positive difference in our local communities.   “This

Partnership Hosts Golf Tournament to Build Bright Futures for County Children

Johnston County — The Partnership for Children of Johnston County is set to host its inaugural “Fore the Kids” Golf Tournament on Friday, April 4th, at the Country Club of Johnston County. The event aims to raise funds to support programs and initiatives that enhance the well-being of children in Johnston County. Proceeds will be utilized for resources such as parenting education for caregivers, classroom support for teachers, and car seats for children. The day will include a catered lunch, and prizes will

Business and Community Leaders Join Chamber of Commerce to Launch Regional Economic Prosperity Initiative

Triangle East Prospers Campaign Announces It Has Secured Over 50% of Campaign Goal from Early Investors On Tuesday, Johnston County business and community leaders joined the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce  to launch the public phase of a $1.3 million campaign to fund a new regional economic prosperity initiative, Triangle East Prospers. This transformative, five-year private-public partnership will ensure Johnston County’s future success in economic and community development through three specific

Workforce, Transportation and Tariffs Key Concern for Local Business

Workforce, Transportation and Tariffs Key Concern for Local Business  The Triangle East Chamber recently conducted a survey of its members to identify the most pressing legislative concerns among local businesses. The results highlight key areas where businesses are looking for policy support and improvements that will strengthen the regional economy. Workforce development remains a top priority, with 71% of respondents selecting it as a top legislative concern. Survey responses emphasized the need for

Johnston County Public Schools Class of 2025 Graduation Dates

Johnston County Public Schools is pleased to announce graduation ceremony dates for our high schools for the 2024-2025 school year. For questions regarding a specific ceremony, please contact the specific school.   Choice Plus Academy - May 22, 2025 at 1:00 PM West Campus Conference Center   I   211 East Rose St., Smithfield, NC 27577   Clayton High School- May 23, 2025 at 6:00 PM Nixon-Fowler Stadium   I   600 S. Fayetteville St., Clayton, NC 27520   Cleveland High School - May 23,

KS Bank Sponsored Community Event for Entrepreneurs & Small Businesses

KS BANK SPONSORED COMMUNITY EVENT FOR ENTREPRENEURS AND SMALL BUSINESSES(Smithfield, NC) – KS Bank was the proud presenting sponsor of the first Harnett Business Resources Summit, hosted by the Dunn, Lillington, Coats, Erwin, and Angier Chambers of Commerce, as well as the Central Carolina Community College Small Business Center. The event provided tools, resources, and insights for entrepreneurs and business owners in Harnett County so they can grow and thrive in the competitive world of business.KS Bank’s

Smithfield’s 39th Annual Ham & Yam Festival Set for May 3, 2025

Smithfield’s Longest-Running Festival Returns with a Spectacular Lineup of Fun, Food, and Entertainment! Smithfield, NC – Mark your calendars for an unforgettable day of fun at the 39th Annual Ham & Yam Festival, returning to historic Downtown Smithfield on Saturday, May 3, 2025! As Smithfield’s longest-running festival, this beloved tradition celebrates community, culture, and, of course, the two iconic Southern staples: ham and yam (they’re really sweet potatoes). This year’s festival promises to be

Smithfield, NC Businesses: News Regarding the CTA, BOI and FinCEN

The Corporate Transparency Act may require certain U.S. companies to disclose beneficial ownership information to FinCEN to combat financial crimes. While a Texas federal district court’s preliminary injunction puts this requirement on hold, many experts expect that to be overturned. In that event, failure to file could lead to fines of $500 per day, up to a maximum of $10,000, and possible criminal penalties. However, filing your Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report will help you avoid fines

Junior Women's League Presents 9th Annual Big Night Out

Smithfield, N.C. - The Junior Women’s League of Smithfield (JWL) will host its 9th Annual Big Night Out - “An Evening of Boots and Bow Ties” at The Barn at Broadslab in Benson on Friday, May 17 at 7 p.m. The League is raising money to support Johnston County initiatives such as their Community Impact Grants to local nonprofits, college scholarships, JWL Blessing Boxes at area fire stations, and much more.  “The Big Night Out Committee is working hard to plan a memorable evening with a Reverse Raffle,

JCPS Breaks Ground On Swift Creek Elementary School

SMITHFIELD, NC – On Tuesday, April 9, 2024,  Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) broke ground on the school district’s newest project, Swift Creek Elementary, located at 4188 Cleveland Road, Smithfield.   The 49th school in the district, Swift Creek Elementary is instrumental in alleviating some of the capacity challenges due to the exponential growth in the central Johnston County area.    The state-of-the-art building offers a modern day feel, without sacrificing key aspects. Security and

Johnston County Early College Academy Senior Jara Ashley is Poised for Success

SMITHFIELD, NC – Johnston County Early College Academy (JCECA) senior Ashley Jara was chosen to take part in the North Carolina’s Governor’s Page Program. Jara and around 10 other high school students from around North Carolina earned the opportunity to engage in four days of hands-on participation in state government.   Since she was young, Jara has always been fascinated with the government. She remembers seeing Hilary Clinton on television when she was growing up and that inspired her. “There's

Coates Hearing Clinic Smithfield Expansion and New Services

Most of you already know about the addition of our Goldsboro location to serve Wayne County and surrounding areas, but we wanted to share the completion of our Smithfield expansion project. When we opened a little over 5 years ago now, we had hoped that we would be able to reach as many people as possible in Johnston County and surrounding areas to provide the best hearing healthcare possible to our community. We knew there was a need and we are so thankful and proud to be able to provide these

Johnston Community College First in State to Offer Truck Driver Training to High School Seniors

JCC is offering the training through the Career and College Promise program to students who turn 18 years of age by April 30th of their senior year.  Smithfield, N.C., (March 18 , 2024) – Johnston Community College (JCC) is the first community college in the state to offer truck driver training through the Career and College Promise (CCP) dual-enrollment program for high school students.  Students who wish to apply to the truck driver training pathway must be high school seniors who will turn 18 years old

JCC Now Offers Degree in 911 Operations

Richmond Community College’s 911 telecommunications program will now be available to students at Johnston Community College after an official agreement was signed by college leaders earlier this week. Dr. Dale McInnis, president of Richmond CC, and Dr. Vern Lindquist, president of JCC, signed off on the partnership on Monday that will allow JCC students to enroll in the online program and complete an associate degree in 911 Communications & Operations. “We believe in the power of collaboration to

Busy Smithfield Exit Will be Reconstructed

Bridge over I-95 at Exit 95 will be upgraded SMITHFIELD – The U.S. 70 Business bridge over Interstate 95 at Exit 95 will be reconstructed into a taller, longer and wider structure, thanks to a new $38.3 million contract. The two-lane bridge over I-95 will be replaced with a five-lane bridge with a sidewalk. In addition, the on/off ramps will be reconfigured to meet modern standards, and traffic signals will be installed at the intersections of the ramps and U.S. 70 Business. The same bridge is also

Melissa Pearce named JCPS 2023 Teacher of the Year

Cleveland High English teacher Melissa Pearce was named the Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) 2023 Teacher of the Year. With the naming Pearce made history, as she is the first person to ever receive the award twice. Pearce received the award for the first time 2007 and was named a finalist for the award in 2022.   Pearce has been an educator with JCPS for the past 19 years. She has been teaching for 20 years, spending her first year teaching in Pamlico County. “It wasn’t quite home,” she said.

KS Bank Named Among the Top Extraordinary Banks in the Nation

KS Bank Named Among the Top Extraordinary Banks in the Nation  SMITHFIELD, NC – KS Bank was just named among the top extraordinary banks in the United States by The Institute for Extraordinary Banking™.  KS Bank was recognized with the Institute’s Banky™ Award for its commitment to strong community banking. This recognition is given to top community banks across the country to help people find the best banks in their communities. They also received the Above-and-Beyond Customer Service Banky™ Award for

Teacher Assistant of the Year rewarded for good works

Johnston County Public Schools Teacher Assistant Chellie Cherry from West Smithfield Elementary was named the 2022 Teacher Assistant of the Year.    The reason is crystal clear. A dedicated employee of Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) for nearly 30 years, she has spent twenty-two of those years as a teacher assistant, an amazing feat in and of itself. The cherry on top is that she is a teacher assistant of exceptional students.   A native of Johnston County and a graduate of

2022 Johnston County Athletic Hall of Fame Recipients Named at Annual Banquet

Johnston County Public Schools inducted six new members to the Johnston County Athletic Hall of Fame on May 7, during the annual Hall of Fame Banquet held at Princeton High.   In the fall of 2005, the high school athletic directors and principals met with JCPS administrators and presented the need to preserve the accomplishments and memories of the men and women who established athletic history in Johnston County.    A Hall of Fame committee consisting of JCPS personnel was encouraged to

Do Good Foods LLC Will Invest More Than $100 Million At Selma's Eastfield Crossing

‘Climate Forward’ Consumer Foods Pioneer Will Create Approximately 100 Jobs in JoCo  Johnston County, N.C. – June 6, 2022. Do Good Foods LLC, a revolutionary climate forward company that upcycles surplus grocery store food into nutrient-dense animal feed, will invest more than $100 million in a new production facility at Eastfield Crossing in Selma. The new operation will employ approximately 100 workers at wages averaging more than $60,000 per year. Johnston County Commissioners joined the Selma Town

Johnston Health introduces new name, logo - Change follows UNC Health’s rebranding launched in 2020

(SMITHFIELD, NC) – Johnston Health is changing its name and logo to more closely align itself with UNC Health.Starting June 1, the hospital, with campuses in Smithfield and Clayton, will rename itself UNC Health Johnston. The version of the logo featuring the Old Well will be replaced with the sleek UNC Health logo and the Johnston name just below.UNC Health introduced its new brand identity in February 2020 as part of an overall transformation strategy. The rollout of the rebranding to other entities

Junior Women's League of Smithfield's 7th Annual Big Night Out Raises Combined $8,000 for Beneficiaries

Smithfield, N.C. - On Saturday, May 21st, the ladies of the Junior Women’s League of Smithfield hosted their annual Big Night Out Gala at The Farm at 95 benefiting ReEntry Family Services and JWL’s Johnston County Blessing Boxes. The league presented a check for $5,000 to ReEntry Family Services and for $3,000 to Johnston County Blessing Boxes. ReEntry Family Services will now be able to expand their “Towards No Drugs” program and maintain children in our county on a path of success, deterring

Carolinas Carbon Plan – A Cleaner Energy Future for Our Customers

Led by significant growth in renewables and storage, the plan features a diverse energy mix to balance reliability and affordability All options in the plan meet carbon reduction targets in North Carolina’s clean energy law, including least-cost and reliability mandatesCHARLOTTE, N.C. – After months of stakeholder input, Duke Energy today filed its proposed Carolinas Carbon Plan with the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) – a clean energy plan that balances affordability and reliability for

2022 Johnston County Teacher of the Year is Homegrown Success

Four Oaks Elementary third grade teacher Jennifer Beninate was named the 2022 Johnston County Teacher of the Year at the annual Flame for Learning Award banquet on April 26.  Beninate is the epitome of a teacher, which by definition is someone who imparts knowledge and enlightens. It’s immediately obvious that teaching is her calling. She draws inspiration from her idol Mary Poppins and speaks to her students lovingly and calmly. “Teaching is just a way I get to be Mary Poppins every day,” she

JCPS TA of the Year is Chellie Cherry, West Smithfield Elementary

Johnston County Public Schools teacher assistant Chellie Cherry from West Smithfield Elementary was named the 2022 Teacher Assistant of the Year at their organization's annual banquet.  Teacher Assistants work alongside teachers to give students additional attention and instruction. Darrick McNeill is the Principal of West Smithfield Elementary. Cherry’s coworkers said that she is beyond deserving of the Teacher Assistant of the Year award, and is an integral part of the West Smithfield Elementary

Triangle East Chamber Announces Legacy Awards Celebration

Award Recipients to Be Honored on June 14th, 2022  SMITHFIELD, NORTH CAROLINA, May 5, 2022— The Triangle East Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce their first annual Legacy Awards celebration, an evening dedicated to honoring leaders who are investing their time, talent, and resources to impact our community. Four distinguished awards will be presented: the Lifetime Achievement Award, the Citizen of the Year Award, the Jimmy Creech Small Businessperson of the Year Award, and the Emerging Leader

SelmaWorks! Resource Fair Brings Workforce and Community Services to Selma Residents

SelmaWorks! Resource Fair Brings Workforce and Community Services to Selma ResidentsFree event targets residents most in need.  April 4, 2022 – The SelmaWorks! Resource Fair will take place at the Richard B. Harrison Gymnasium from 10am-2pm on Friday, April 22. The event is a partnership between Capital Area Workforce Development (CAWD), NCWorks, Johnston Community College and Johnston County Public Schools. The resource fair will feature several organizations that provide services to help individuals in

LEADERSHIP JOHNSTON LAUNCHES CLASS OF 2022

SMITHFIELD, NORTH CAROLINA, January 15, 2022— A fully engaged Leadership Johnston program returns to Johnston County this year! The eleven-month program is designed for those who want to learn more about the county while developing and refining leadership skills. Through a variety of personal growth opportunities, individuals will gain a more in-depth understanding of the many facets of Johnston County, build crisis leadership and change management skills, and learn the skills necessary for effectively

New Website Connects Commuting Workers With Open Jobs Nearby

NEW WEBSITE CONNECTS COMMUTING WORKERS WITH OPEN JOBS NEARBYJoCoCareers.org Aims to Fine-Tune Johnston County’s Labor Market  Johnston County, N.C. – January 10, 2022. Johnston County is one of the state’s fastest growing counties in terms of population and employment. A website – JoCoCareers.org -- launched earlier this month seeks to align new jobs and workers, and reduce the high number of county residents who commute to neighboring towns and cities. County leaders hope the new resource also will

Smithfield’s 4th of July Fireworks Display Set for July 4 at Johnston Community College

SMITHFIELD, NC– After not having an Independence Celebration in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation, Smithfield Parks & Recreation, and Johnston Community College are excited to announce the return of 4th of July fireworks!     Smithfield’s 2021 4th of July Fireworks Display will be held at 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 4 at Johnston Community College.  JCC parking lots will open for viewing only (no restrooms available) beginning at 8:00 p.m., and the

KS Bank advances in N.C. financial ranking

The Smithfield-based bank is ranked 31st in Business North Carolina magazine's 2021 list of "Largest Banks and Credit Unions Based in North Carolina" --- up from a ranking of 34th last year.The magazine reports that KS Bank had revenue of $18.7 million in 2020 --- up 11.3% from 2019 --- producing net income of $4.8 million, up 14.3%. Total assets of $486 million is also a factor in the bank's new ranking.First Citizens BancShares --- founded in Smithfield as First Citizens Bank & Trust Company and now based

JUNIOR WOMEN’S LEAGUE OF SMITHFIELD’S 6th ANNUAL BIG NIGHT OUT RAISES $17,000 FOR RIVERSIDE RANCH

Smithfield, N.C. --  On Saturday, May 22, the Junior Women’s League of Smithfield held their 6th annual Big Night Out as a virtual reverse raffle fundraiser to benefit Riverside Ranch, a therapeutic equine facility that serves children with physical and developmental disabilities, veterans, and senior adults.    League President, Sarah Edwards, and BNO co-chair, Dana Peterson, presented a check to Riverside Ranch Executive Director and Founder Sarah Valentine for $15,000 to help fund the

Kelly Wallace Selected for U.S. Chamber Foundation Education and Workforce Fellowship Program

Fellowship Provides State and Local Business Leaders with Opportunities toEngage Nationally on Critical Education and Workforce Issues  WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation today announced Kelly Wallace, Vice President & COO of the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce was selected to participate in the fifth cohort of its premiere business leadership program. The Business Leads Fellowship Program trains and equips leaders from state and local chambers of commerce, economic development

LIVE@THE RUDY to Open JULY 10, 2021!

The 2021 LIVE@THE RUDY shows are set to hit the stage on JULY 10th! This will mark the second Grand Opening of the Rudy Theater since first opening with live shows in 1998.  “As more and more people get vaccines and businesses are allowed to open, we plan to celebrate a Grand Re-opening, with our Classic Country Jubilee on July 10th, said owner/producer/musician Spook Joyner.  “We will move that date up or back, depending on the Governor’s mandate.”   The Classic Country Jubilee will run from July through

Third StrEATery, Downtown Smithfield’s Outside Dining Room and Live Entertainment Venue, to Re-open May 7

SMITHFIELD, NC – The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation (DSDC) is excited to announce the re-opening of the Third StrEATery, Downtown Smithfield’s Socially Distanced Outside Dining Room and Live Entertainment Venue.  Come downtown with your family, meet up with your friends, get takeout from a downtown restaurant, and head over to Third Street from 6-9pm to hear live music, shop from local businesses, have a beer or glass of wine, or try your hand at axe throwing!  Afterward, catch a movie or

The Sleep Inn & Suites Hotel in Smithfield, NC Wins Prestigious 2021 Platinum Hospitality Award from Choice Hotels

Smithfield, NC2021 – The Sleep Inn & Suites hotel of Smithfield, NC has been recognized with a prestigious 2021 Platinum Award from Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), franchisor of the Sleep Inn brand.  The Platinum Award designation goes only to the top three-percent of hotels within the brand, representing a tremendous accomplishment. As one of the top tier properties operating under the Sleep Inn flag, the hotel’s staff has demonstrated an exceptional focus on guest satisfaction and

JCC Business Partnership Opportunity

Looking for ways to get more promotion for your business?  Become a Business Partner with Johnston Community College to promote your business through our newly established JCC Alumni Association! By offering discounts to JCC alumni, students, and employees, your business will be recognized in JCC publications and announcements throughout the year - encouraging our campus community to patronize your business!  For more information, call (919) 209-2182 or email jccalumni@johnstoncc.edu.

Town of Selma Names Brent Taylor New Town Manager

TOWN OF SELMA - Effective April 1, 2021, Mr. Brent Taylor will assume the position of Selma Town Manager.Mr. Taylor comes to Selma from Walhalla, South Carolina where he is currently serving as City Administrator. His efforts there were devoted to securing the long-term future of the city by obtaining funding for a Water Treatment facility, increasing economic and cultural activities in the Downtown District, approving ordinances to provide investment incentives, implementing more effective zoning and

Three Local Leaders Graduate from Leadership Development Program

RALEIGH, NC— Johnston County was well represented recently by leaders from across the County participating in the NC Rural Center’s Homegrown Leaders program.  Johnston County Commissioner Butch Lawter, Benson Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Loretta Byrd and Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation Executive Director Sarah Edwards graduated last month from the program, a three-day regional leadership and economic development program that develops and supports highly-motivated leaders who are

JUNIOR WOMEN’S LEAGUE PRESENTS $12,000 COMMUNITY IMPACT GRANT TO PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILDREN OF JOHNSTON COUNTY

Smithfield, N.C. -  On Thursday, March 4th, 2021, the Junior Women’s League of Smithfield presented a Community Impact Grant award to Partnership for Children of Johnston County for $12,000.  Funds were raised during JWL’s Diaper Drive in the Fall of 2020. Due to a quick pivot from the Junior Women's League of Smithfield's Touch-A-Truck committee, the hard work of our members, and the incredible support of our community (and beyond), JWL was also able to donate more than 31,000 diapers, as well as wipes

JUNIOR WOMEN’S LEAGUE OF SMITHFIELD PLACES CHILD-CENTERED RESOURCE BAGS IN JWL BLESSING BOXES

Smithfield, N.C. --   The Junior Women’s League of Smithfield partnered with Alliance Behavioral Health, Johnston County CMARC, and Huebner Family McDonald’s to put together 500 child-centered resource bags. The purpose of the resource bags is to provide support for children and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic through mental health resources and play therapy.    The bags include a “Joey the Kangaroo and her Coping with COVID Plan” coloring book, mental health resource flyers, Johnston

JCC Offering Free Workshop for Underemployed and Unemployed

Smithfield-Selma Chamber honors distinguished citizens at Annual Meeting

SMITHFIELD, North Carolina — The Greater Smithfield-Selma Area Chamber of Commerce culminated its 2016 year at its 47th Annual Meeting with a farewell bid to its President of 30 years, Rick Childrey; recognitions of members who earned special honors; and, a passing of the gavel from 2016 Board Chair Dr. Dwight Morris, Executive Director of the Johnston County Partnership for Children, to 2017 Board Chair Corina Knott, Senior Account Executive with Interstate Outdoor, Inc.   Knott expressed excitement

Johnston County Schools - Selma Middle welcomes 12 new educators

Selma Middle welcomes 12 new educators Selma Middle School has welcomed 12 new educators to its halls for the 2015-2016 school year. Joining the team are Tabitha Ammons, Alexander Burgess, Samantha Determan, Patricia Ann Leitner, Michael Llaury, Cynthia Markham, Shawna Marie Phillips, Emily Shelton, Brandon Sullivan, Aaron Tipping, Chrystal Trammell, and Kimberly Whipple. Kimberly Whipple will be joining the fifth grade team at Selma Middle. She is a graduate of California University and Edinboro University

The ''Will of the People'' Mr. Will Crocker

Distinguished Citizen Award Presented to Will Crocker by Chandler Pernell at the Annual Meeting on January 26th, 2015.   Our second Distinguished Citizen Award will be given to someone who has served Johnston County and the Smithfield-Selma area for his entire life. The award also is sponsored by Woody’s Computing Service.   When my parents first moved back to Smithfield, they became this gentleman’s new (almost next door) neighbor. My parents moved into another house before I was born, so he was never

Athena Award recipient is living legacy for service

Presented by Crystal Roberts at the 45th Annual Meeting on January 26th, 2015 The Chamber Athena Award is presented each year to recognize the outstanding achievements of women in the Smithfield-Selma community. A national award, it is presented in over 300 communities and is sponsored locally by Corestaff Services. The Chamber would like to thank Corestaff for their continued sponsorship of this prestigious honor. If one were to describe her as a book, this living legacy would be the leather-bound

Smithfield-Selma Chamber of Commerce recognizes local SuperStar Teachers

The Education Committee of the Greater Smithfield-Selma Area Chamber of Commerce honored seven local elementary school teachers on November 3 at its semi-annual Semester SuperStars Luncheon at the Sleep Inn & Suites in Smithfield.  These teachers were nominated by their principals and recognized as outstanding educators in the Smithfield-Selma area. The teachers were given a plaque and a bag full of items from Chamber members. A similar luncheon will be held in the spring for outstanding middle and high

Sherry Harris Is A Woman To Follow

Speech Given By Crystal Roberts: Ladies and gentleman, the Smithfield-Selma Chamber is again excited to present the prestigious Athena Award to a well-deserving recipient. This award celebrates the potential of all women as valued members and leaders of the community and honors individuals who strive toward the highest levels of professional accomplishment. Tonight’s recipient is a fierce advocate for acknowledging female potential and just as importantly doing what needs to be done to make this community