News

Small Business Center Offers Workshops

The Small Business Center at Johnston Community College has announced its lineup of workshops for September. They include bookkeeping and marketing classes. The full details can be viewed here.

Workforce Housing Coming to Eastfield

Apartments are coming to Eastfield.  Eastfield, the 435 acre mixed use development, in Selma that's plan includes manufacturing, retail, hospitality, and residential, recently announced a 348 unit multifamily community will be built. The project represents an innovative collaboration between the NRP Group and the Mid-Atlantic Foundation to create a real estate tax exempt development that encourages affordable rents. According to a report released earlier this year by the NC Chamber there is a significant

Johnston County Recognizes Summer Interns and Highlights Local Government Opportunities

Johnston County Recognizes Summer Interns and Highlights Local Government Opportunities Smithfield, N.C.- The Johnston County Board of Commissioners recognized this year’s class of summer interns during their regular meeting on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. More than a dozen high school and college students gained valuable work experience this summer through internships across multiple County departments. Interns learned skills across several disciplines working with professionals in County departments

Are You Interested in Pursuing a Career in Child Care but Lack Previous Experience?

Local 'I Do, Re-Do' Event

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THE DUPREE HOUSE TO HOST "I DO, RE-DO" EVENT FOR SUSTAINABLE WEDDING SHOPPING SMITHFIELD, NC – September 2, 2025 – The Dupree House is excited to announce its inaugural "I Do, Re- Do" event, a unique wedding market designed to connect recent brides and wedding planners with brides-to-be seeking beautiful, budget-friendly treasures. The event will be held on January 11th, offering a sustainable and savvy way to shop for wedding essentials. The "I Do, Re-Do" serves as a

Chamber Board Chair Elect Speaks at State Workforce Conference

Scott Nunn, facilities engineer at Novo Nordisk and incoming board chair at the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce was one of the featured speakers at the North Carolina Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Education and Workforce Conference on Skills. More than 260 people attended the event. According to Stuart Andreason, executive director of programs at Burning Glass Institute, skills are what determines the future readiness of a workforce. Technologies will continue to intersect existing job roles, shifting the

JOCO WORKS Featured at NC Chamber Workforce Development Conference

Scott Nunn, facilities engineer at Novo Nordisk and incoming board chair at the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce, presented at the North Carolina Chamber of Commerce's Education and Workforce Conference on August 21. Scott was one of three panelists that presented how businesses can help shape training to meet their specific needs ensuring a pipeline of skilled workers. He focused on JOCO WORKS. Scott has been part of the JOCO WORKS steering committee since its inception. Scott said his true passion is

50% of NC Businesses Have Embraced AI

The US Chamber  of Commerce released a report on small businesses use of artificial intelligence The report found approximately 50% of businesses in the state have adopted use of AI. However, business leaders have concerns over data privacy and regulations. The report found that use of AI has helped small business owners cope with inflation and supply chain disruption as well as improved access to capital. At the same time 82% of the businesses surveyed reported they had increased their workforce during

Johnston County Board of Commissioners to Hold Public Hearing on Comprehensive Transportation Plan

Johnston County Board of Commissioners to Hold Public Hearing on Comprehensive Transportation Plan     Smithfield, N.C.-  The Johnston County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, to receive community input on the County’s Comprehensive Transportation Plan. The hearing will take place during the Commissioners’ regular meeting at 6:00 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, located at 207 East Johnston Street at the Johnston County Courthouse in

Leadership Johnston Accepting Applications

Applications are being accepted for the 2026 Class of Leadership Johnston. Leadership Johnston is a professional development program coordinated by Johnston Community College and the Johnston County Coalition of Chambers of Commerce. The mission of the program is to cultivate leaders by providing knowledge, motivation and networking needed to affect positive change.   The program is open to professionals at all stages of their careers, the only requirement- a willingness to learn and

Two JOCO Businesses In the Running For Coolest Thing

Two Johnston County businesses are in the running for the Coolest Thing Made in North Carolina.  Bright Leaf Hot Dogs is running in the medium company category and OPW is running in the large company category. People can vote once a day. The contest is run by the North Carolina Chamber to celebrate manufacturing in the state. 13% of the state's GDP is generated from manufacturing. Manufacturing employs 459,300 people in the state. To see the list of nominees and to vote for your favorites visit

2025 ATHENA Finalists Named

Triangle East Chamber of Commerce Announces Finalists for 38th Annual ATHENA International Leadership Award The Triangle East Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the finalists for the 38th Annual Triangle East ATHENA International Leadership Award. This prestigious award will be presented on October 9, 2025, to an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in her business or profession, served the community in a meaningful way, and assisted women in reaching their professional goals and

Johnston Community College and Corning Incorporated Collaborate on Fiber Optic Training Course

Johnston Community College and Corning Incorporated Collaborate on Fiber Optic Training CourseSmithfield, NC — (August 20, 2025) – Johnston Community College (JCC) has partnered with Corning Incorporated, a global leader in optical communications technology, to introduce an advanced Train-the-Trainer Fiber Optic Technician Course. This collaboration comes at a critical moment, as the nation faces urgent demand for skilled technicians to support the rapid expansion of broadband infrastructure, specifically

Microtransit Offers Macro Benefits

North Carolinians rely heavily on their vehicles to get to and from work. In fact, 80% of workers in the state commute by car or truck, according to AutoInsurance.com. Yet car ownership carries significant costs—monthly payments, fuel, insurance, and regular maintenance. More cars on the road also mean more traffic. For many, especially those in lower-wage positions, the expense of owning a vehicle can be a major barrier to employment. Municipalities across the country are embracing microtransit, a

KS Bank Welcomes Travis B. Bailey as Chief Administrative Officer, EVP

KS BANK WELCOMES TRAVIS B. BAILEY AS CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT  (SMITHFIELD, N.C.) – KS Bank, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of Travis B. Bailey to its Senior Executive Management team as the Chief Administrative Officer. In this role, Bailey will lead the bank’s retail branches and management and ensure that KS Bank continues to deliver exceptional service and build strong community relationships. Bailey brings more than twenty years of experience in community

Small Business Grant Writing Mastery

Small Business Center to host Small Business Grant Writing Mastery.    This 90-minute class is specifically designed for small business owners and entrepreneurs in North Carolina seeking grant funding to help build their dream. Details and additional information can be found here. 

Guide to Maximize Savings for Small Businesses from New Tax Law

The US Chamber has published a guide for small businesses to help them maximize savings from the recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This guide helps companies better understand provisions of the law, including permanent deductions, enhanced credits, and expanded eligibility criteria. Small business owners can take advantage of these tax breaks starting now for expenses dating back to January 20, 2025. The guide can be found here.

Johnston County Takes Flight

While Johnston County can claim many superlatives - one of the fastest growing counties in the state- when you look to the skies we can boast about the the busiest airport in North Carolina for general aviation operations and the fourth busiest airport overall in the state, trailing only Charlotte, Raleigh and Greensboro.    The airport serves as a significant economic driver that supports more than 1,100 jobs and generates over $210 in economic output.   David Harris, executive director will

Triangle East Chamber Names First Talent and Leadership Development Manager

Smithfield, NC – The Triangle East Chamber of Commerce has taken a major step forward in its five-year Triangle East Prospers initiative, appointing BriAnna Walker as the region’s first-ever Talent and Leadership Development Manager. The new role marks a significant investment in tackling one of Johnston County’s most pressing challenges: building a skilled workforce. Currently, 63 percent of area employers report difficulty finding workers with essential skills. Walker will lead the charge in developing,

Mosely Appointed to Leadership Role

Narron Wenzel, P.A. is proud to announce that our Partner, Kemp Mosley, has been appointed Chairman of the Estate Planning & Fiduciary Law Section of the North Carolina Bar Association for the 2025–26 NCBA year.The Estate Planning & Fiduciary Law Section is one of the largest and most active sections of the NCBA, with approximately 1,600 attorneys across North Carolina who focus their practice on trust and estate law.Kemp, a Fellow in the American College of Trust & Estate Counsel, has been a dedicated

Rail Access: The Hidden Engine Behind Johnston County’s Supply Chain Strength

As Johnston County grows into a regional logistics hub, Rail is emerging as one of the most valuable—and often overlooked—assets fueling that momentum. Strategically positioned along the North Carolina Railroad (NCRR) line, Johnston County has direct access to a 317-mile freight corridor that stretches from Charlotte to Morehead City. That connection opens the door to deepwater ports, inland distribution centers, and faster freight movement across the Southeast. For businesses in manufacturing,

How to Market Your Made in USA Products

One of the biggest arguments for reshoring your production operation is that it can attract new customers. A recent poll from the Alliance for American Manufacturing found that 82% of shoppers would buy more Made in America products if they were sold more widely. Reshoring your manufacturing can not only bring in new business but also boost brand loyalty. Here’s what you need to know about marketing your domestic production operation. The phrase “Made in the USA” carries a certain connotation for

KS Bank Celebrates New Full-Service Branch in Bailey, NC with Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

KS BANK CELEBRATES NEW FULL-SERVICE BRANCH IN BAILEY, NC WITH OFFICIAL RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY(SMITHFIELD, NC) – KS Bank hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 24th, to celebrate the bank’s new Bailey branch. The ceremony featured remarks from Leigh Deans, with the Bailey Chamber of Commerce, Owen Strickland, Mayor of Bailey, Walter Wells, Mayor Pro-tem of Bailey, Earl W. Worley, Jr., KS Bank President/CEO, and James C. Parker, KS Bancorp Board Chairman. Reverend Michael Coppock, Pastor with

Applications Now Open for Leadership Johnston

Leadership Johnston, a premier professional development program in Johnston County, is now accepting applications for the 2026 class. Applications will be accepted through September 30.   Leadership Johnston is a collaborative effort between the Johnston County Coalition of Chambers  and Johnston Community College, aimed at cultivating leadership skills and community engagement among professionals in the region. This program, presented by KS Bank, offers participants a comprehensive experience that

Chamber Foundations Are a National Best Practice

More than a local initiative, Chamber foundations have become a national best practice—empowering chambers across the country to tackle big-picture challenges like workforce readiness, small business resilience, and inclusive economic growth. By establishing our Foundation 14 years ago, we positioned ourselves ahead of the curve, recognizing early on that a 501(c)(3) arm would allow us to access new funding, support community-focused programs, and deepen our long-term impact. Today, with nearly 90% of

Cracking the Code: How to Turn Local Intel into Business Strategy

You’re sitting on a goldmine and don’t even know it. Right outside your storefront, in the coffee shops and laundromats and food trucks humming a block away, are patterns, habits, and whispers that—if read right—can tell you exactly what your next move should be. Strategy isn’t just spreadsheets and quarterly forecasts, it’s how well you can read the room, especially when the room is your zip code. It’s not glamorous, but that’s the point. What works in Midtown won’t fly in Midtown South, and your biggest

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

Employee Wellness is Good Business

Employee Wellness is Good Business Companies that prioritize employee wellness are finding its a tool to recruit and retain employees and a way to reduce healthcare costs. Research conducted by Workforce Magazine found that 87 percent of employees considered wellness programs when choosing an employer. In addition 67 percent of employees who worked for organizations with wellness programs reported job satisfaction and would recommend their employer to others. The Harvard Business Review reports that

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

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

KS Bank Named 2021 Community Bank of the Year

KS BANK NAMED 2021 COMMUNITY BANK OF THE YEAR  (SMITHFIELD, NC) - KS Bank was awarded the 2021 Community Bank of the Year award by the NC Rural Center. This award is given to the financial institution that was a leading lending partner to North Carolina’s small businesses while providing exceptional customer service. Phil Marion, treasurer of the NC Rural Center’s Board of Directors said, “KS Bank has been a partner of the Rural Center since 2012, and since that time, has supported more than 30 loans for a

Duke Energy Secures Offshore Wind Lease for Carolina Long Bay

Duke Energy Renewables Wind, LLC, a nonregulated subsidiary of Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), has been named a provisional winner of OCS-A 0546 lease area in the Carolina Long Bay offshore wind auction. The lease was one of two awarded as part of an Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf renewable energy auction held by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM). “Securing this lease creates optionality for future offshore wind if the North Carolina Utilities Commission determines it’s part of the least cost path

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

Commissioners Vote Unanimously to Accept NC Railroad Grant

Selma’s Eastfield Crossing Project Set to Benefit from Rail Access Johnston County, N.C. – March 22, 2022. The Johnston County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously last night to formally accept a $750,000 infrastructure grant as part of the North Carolina Railroad Company’s Build Ready Sites initiative. The award will be applied to upgrades and improvements in Selma that will support the county’s Eastfield Crossing project.  “Johnston County is proud to be one of six North Carolina counties to be

Food Truck Business Opens Brick and Mortar Restaurant

New comfort food restaurant now open in Pine Needle Square  Smithfield, NC (March 3, 2022) – AdVenture Development, LLC, is pleased to announce that 815 Gourmet Grill is now open for carryout and delivery. The dining room will open soon. The restaurant is AdVenture Development’s newest tenant in the recently renovated Pine Needle Square.  A popular area food truck, 815 Gourmet Grill is delighted to open its first brick and mortar location. The restaurant offers classics with a twist, featuring gourmet

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

ADVANCETEC WILL INVEST OVER $10 MILLION AT SITE NEAR CLAYTON - Cleanroom Integration Experts to Leverage Prefabrication & Modularization for Biotech

Johnston County, N.C. – November 1, 2021. AdvanceTEC, a leader in cleanroom design, construction and mission-critical process integration, will invest more than $10 million in a new site in Johnston County. The Richmond, Va. based company intends to create an advanced skilled workforce at a location near Clayton, which will serve biotechnology companies in the Research Triangle and throughout the United States.   “Johnston County’s place in the 21st century life sciences industry is taking an important

Scooter's Coffee Opens on Labor Day

Smithfield, NC (September 3, 2021) – Adventure Development, LLC, is pleased to announce that Scooter’s Coffee will open in Pine Needle Square in Smithfield on Monday, September 6. Located at 701 N. Brightleaf Boulevard, Scooter’s is owned by Shawn and Jennifer Pearce and Rob and Jocelyn Southerland. The drive-thru location offers coffee, smoothies, baked goods, breakfast items, and specialty drinks with speedy and friendly customer service. “We know that any organization’s success depends on the

The First “Red Vest Tuesday” For Lowe’s 100 Hometowns Project, Activate Selma A Success

SELMA, NC:  Monday, August 30 - On Tuesday, August 24th,  volunteers from Selma Parks and Recreation, Activate Selma, local businesses and Lowe’s of Smithfield endured the heat and dramatically changed the look of Downtown Selma during the first “Red Vest Day” as part of Lowe’s 100 Hometown projects.   “Red Vest Tuesday” is in conjunction with the Lowe’s 100 Hometowns, a $10 million initiative to celebrate Lowe’s centennial by completing 100 community impact projects across the United States by the end of

SOLA CREATIONS BOUTIQUE FEATURED IN THE BOOK, A Heart for Selma: 12 Stories of Activate Selma NC

The much-awaited book, A Heart for Selma: 12 Stories of Activate Selma NC, written by Pine Level writer Cindy Brookshire, shares 12 personal stories of Selma, North Carolina residents, volunteers, and business owners who are revitalizing and uplifting their beloved rail community and all it has to offer.  Katja Jentes of ProverbsPhotography shot all the photos in the book, including the book cover.   Twenty-three community members participated in the project and two national experts, Roger Brooks

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

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

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.

JCC Offering Free Workshop for Underemployed and Unemployed