News

Calling All Young Artists! Ham & Yam T-Shirt Design Contest

Are you a creative middle or high school student in Smithfield? Here’s your chance to showcase your talent and make your mark at the 39th Annual Ham & Yam Festival! We’re inviting Smithfield students to design the official festival t-shirt, which will be sold to attendees and celebrated across town. Contest Details:Who Can Enter: Smithfield middle and high school studentsSubmission Deadline: January 30thPrizes: Cash awards for the winning artist and runners-upRecognition: The winning design will be

Safe Kids Johnston County Offers Essential Holiday Safety Tips for Families

Johnston County – As the holiday season approaches, Safe Kids Johnston County urges families to prioritize safety. Below are essential safety tips to help families navigate the most common safety hazards so this holiday season can be a memorable one.  Cooking SafetyThe kitchen can be a bustling hub during holidays. To prevent burns and spills, always opt for the back burner and turn pot handles away from the edge. Teach older children safe practices, like using oven mitts and never leaving the kitchen

Leadership Johnston Celebrates 2024 Graduates

Johnston County, NC – Leadership Johnston, a collaborative initiative by local chambers and organizations, celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2024 on November 14 at The Clayton Center. The event was sponsored by KS Bank, Novo Nordisk, Narron & Wenzel P.A., Barbetta, LLC, Benson Area Chamber of Commerce, Lumos, and The Insurance Shoppe of North Carolina, Inc. Leadership Johnston is a nine-month program designed for professionals seeking advancement within their organizations. Participants engaged in

Junior Women’s League of Smithfield’s Online Annual Fundraiser “Letters from Santa” to Provide Winter Coats to Children in Johnston County and Children Affected by Hurricane Helene in Western NC

Smithfield, NC – The Junior Women’s League of Smithfield is excited to announce our annual “Letters from Santa” online fundraiser, running from November 12 to December 2, 2024. This holiday season, we invite families, friends, and community members to spread joy and support a great cause by purchasing a personalized letter from Santa for just $7. All proceeds will benefit children in need through the Partnership for Children, the Boys and Girls Club of Johnston County, and children in Western North

JOCO WORKS World of Works (WOW) Empowers Eighth Graders to Explore Career Paths at JCC

JOCO WORKS World of Works (WOW) Empowers Eighth Graders to Explore Career Paths at Johnston Community College JOCO WORKS World of Works (WOW), a groundbreaking initiative transforming the way eighth graders in Johnston County explore careers, will be held on November 7th and 8th at the Johnston Community College campus in Smithfield. More than 3,400 students from Johnston County Public Schools, Neuse Charter School, and American Leadership Academy will participate in this hands-on learning event produced

Exciting Holiday Events at Old North State Food Hall and Blitzen’s Tavern in Selma, NC!

Selma, NC - October 31, 2024 – The holidays are upon us, and we are thrilled to invite you to Old North State Food Hall and the return of  Blitzen’s Tavern for a season packed with unforgettable events! Whether you want to enjoy festive music, test your trivia knowledge, shop for unique gifts, or meet the Grinch himself, our event lineup has something for everyone. Come, celebrate, and explore everything Old North State Food Hall offers this holiday season!   Here’s a taste of what’s coming

2024-2025 JCPS Principal of the Year Melissa Hurst Changes Lives Through Education

Smithfield, NC - Corinth Holders High Principal Ms. Melissa Hurst has been named the 2024-2025 Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) Principal of the Year. Hurst has been a professional educator for 25 years, with nine years in an administrative role. During her career, she has been a dedicated servant leader in many capacities, including teacher, instructional coach, coordinator, senior administrator of a middle school Language Arts program, assistant principal, principal, and a host of other educational

Princeton Police Department Holds Christmas Toy Drive

DSDS Seeks Performers for Kick-Off to Christmas Tree Lighting Festival in Downtown Smithfield

Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation(DSDC) is excited to announce an open call for performance groups to participate in the Kick-Off to Christmas Tree Lighting Festival on November 29th, from 12 PM to 7 PM. This festive event will take place in front of the Christmas Tree on the Library Stage, marking the official start of the holiday season in our vibrant downtown. We invite local choirs, bands, dancers, and other performance groups to showcase their talents and help us spread holiday cheer. This

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

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

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 County Bridge Will Close for 13 Months

The project will require a closure on N.C. 210 SMITHFIELD – A bridge on N.C. 210 west of Smithfield will be replaced starting this summer. Built during the Great Depression, the bridge spanning Middle Creek is nearing the end of its lifespan. Although the bridge has been maintained for safety, it has become functionally obsolete and structurally deficient, which means it requires extensive maintenance and has an antiquated design. The N.C. Department of Transportation awarded the $3.2 million

Selma, NC Will Compete for Your Vote in 2024 Strongest Town Contest

Selma’s Public Engagement Receives Finalist Nomination in National Contest   SELMA, NORTH CAROLINA — Selma, NC will go head-to-head with fifteen other US cities in the 9th Annual Strongest Town Contest and voting begins Monday, March 4. In this bracket-style voting tournament, Selma, NC will compete for the “Strongest Town” title by shining a national spotlight on its progress toward safety, financial resiliency, housing, and transportation.Cast your vote for Selma, NC starting Monday, March 4 at

Latinos Activate JOCO Announces the 8th Annual JOCO Latino Festival in Selma, N.C.

Latinos Activate JOCO Announces the 8th Annual JOCO Latino Festival in Selma, N.C. Opportunities for Vendors, Performers, and Sponsors   Selma, N.C. – Latinos Activate JOCO enthusiastically announces the 8th Annual JOCO Latino Festival, a vibrant celebration of Latino culture and community engagement. The festival is scheduled for Sunday, May 12, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.   This year's festival will be prominently situated along Raiford Street and Waddell Street, with comprehensive

Johnston County’s Own Crowned Miss America’s Teen

SMITHFIELD, NC - Hanley House, a junior at Cleveland High School (CvHS), was crowned Miss America’s Teen 2024 at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando on January 13, 2024. Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) is proud to recently conduct House’s first official in-person interview as Miss America’s Teen.   Just over one year ago, on a whim, House decided to step out of her comfort zone and enter her first-ever pageant, Miss Cleveland High. She always watched Miss America on television, never thinking

Selma Kicks Off a Year Full of Events

The Town of Selma Hosts the First of Many 2024 Events  Selma, North Carolina — The Town of Selma has officially kicked off its 2024 event season! The annual Polar Bear Run was held on Saturday, January 13th, and is the first of many exciting events Selma hosts each year. February will bring more exciting events to town including the Daddy/Daughter Dance and Soul Food Feast. With spring right around the corner, the Town will partner with Activate Selma for Rockin’ on Raiford, bringing you street-centered

JNOW Launches Dine JoCo

JNOW Magazine will produce a local dining guide in 2024, highlighting the amazing food options Johnston County has to offer. This glossy magazine featuring photos, stories, menus and a restaurant directory will publish in March and will be accompanied by a website, www.dinejoco.com. The magazine will be distributed throughout the year to residents, newcomers and visitors. There are multiple opportunities for restaurants to participate. Contact Jamie Strickland at jamie@johnstonnow.com or visit

KS Bank Celebrating 100 Years!

(SMITHFIELD, NC) – KS Bank is proud to announce that they are celebrating their 100th anniversary in business, a milestone few other businesses have reached. Currently, there are estimated to be less than 1,000 companies in the United States that have survived 100 years – less than half a percent of all businesses in the U.S. Founded in 1924, the institution began as Kenly Building & Loan Association, primarily providing home loans to individuals in Kenly, NC and the broader Johnston County area. In 1961,

Donna Bailey-Taylor receives Frances Finch Hobart Award for Voluntary Community Service

Donna Bailey-Taylor, who serves on numerous community boards in Johnston County and has helped raise significant funds through donations and grants for many area projects, has received the Frances Finch Hobart Award for Voluntary Community Service. Bailey-Taylor received the award from the Johnston County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the North Carolina Community Foundation. For more information, please visit the NC Community Foundation site here.

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

“Enjoy the View” of Selma's New Engine 11

FIRE TRUCK DEDICATION & WASHDOWN CEREMONY  Selma, North Carolina — The Town of Selma is excited to announce that the Selma Fire Department has received delivery of a brand-new Fire Engine. Engine 11 is a 2023 Pierce Saber Fire Engine that exhibits a 1500-gallon per minute fire pump with a 750-gallon onboard water tank and seating for four firefighters. While planning the build of this new engine, the Fire Department explored the opportunity to prepare for the ongoing development and plans for growth around

Selma Christmas Celebration & Parade – Tuesday, December 5th

Celebrate the Christmas season in downtown Selma with entertainment, fireworks & more!   Selma, North Carolina — The Town of Selma will kick off the Christmas season  with a downtown Christmas Celebration and Parade on Tuesday, December  5th.  Festivities will begin at 6:00 PM in front of Selma Town Hall. Events will begin with  singing and entertainment, a countdown to the official tree lighting, and more!  Arrive early to visit downtown shops and make plans to grab dinner or a treat  while strolling

Activate Selma Non-Profit Group Decorates Downtown Selma For The Holidays.

Activate Selma has completed decorating Raiford Street in downtown Selma for the Holidays.“Downtown Selma is the “living room” of our town, and we want our visitors and guests to feel welcomed in a town as pretty as it can be.”  Stated group President, Kim Wooten.  “We are excited for everyone to see the trees at Art Out Loud Park, the window displays along Raiford Street, hear the music and experience the nostalgic feel of the town itself this holiday season.”  Wooten organized the installment of 10 trees

“Wreaths for Uncle” – December 16th at Selma Memorial Gardens

SUPPORT THE LOCAL INITIATIVE TO REMEMBER THE FALLEN, HONOR THOSE THAT SERVE, AND TEACH THE VALUE OF FREEDOM.Selma, North Carolina — Wreaths Across America volunteers are working hard across the nation to raise funding and awareness for the upcoming memorial event. Evey Morgan, a 15-year-old high school junior, is the local event coordinator and location organizer for the annual event held in Selma, NC. In memory of her Uncle LtC. Michael Fields, the “Wreaths for Uncle” ceremony is scheduled for Saturday,

Pop Up Holiday Bar Opening at Old North State Food Hall

Former cigar humidor transformed into Blitzen’s Tavern for the holidays   Selma, NC (October 27, 2023) – Old North State Food Hall is officially kicking off the holiday season when Blitzen’s Tavern, a holiday pop-up bar, opens on November 1. From November through early January, look for festive holiday décor from floor to ceiling at Blitzen’s Tavern, located in the former JR Cigar humidor, at 67 JR Rd in Selma, NC. Blitzen’s unveils a seasonal beverage menu that includes hand-crafted holiday cocktails and

Serve The Need in Johnston County Announces The 11th Annual Thanksgiving Community Sit-Down Meal

Serve The Need in Johnston County Announces The 11th Annual Thanksgiving Community Sit-Down Meal - Meal Will Feature Two Sittings and Will Take Place on November 22nd Serve The Need in Johnston County is heading up the Annual Thanksgiving Community November 22, 2023.  “We wanted to be able to serve more of the community.”  Stated Chairman, Teresa Schmitt of L.I.T.E. House Foundation.  “Having two different times in order for the community to enjoy the meal was one way to do that and we are thankful that we

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.

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

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

Junior Women’s League of Smithfield Provisional Members Exceed Goal in Peanut Butter Collection for Children and Add Blessing Boxes

Smithfield, N.C. – The Junior Women’s League of Smithfield’s Spring Provisional class set a goal to collect 3,300 jars of peanut butter for Johnston County Public Schools’ students in the local BackPack Buddies program. This program provides children from low-income households with nutritious, kid-friendly groceries for the weekend when free school lunches and breakfasts are not provided. An astounding 4,932 jars of peanut butter of every size were collected through 14 Official Peanut Butter Buddies

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

New Story Walk Open in Selma, NC

SELMA, N.C. The first Story Walk in Selma has arrived! It is located along the walking path around Blackley Athletic Park at 601 W. Noble Street. The Story Walk concept offers families the opportunity to enjoy some light physical exercise while reading stories along the path. Through this walk around the park, participants are guided through questions to ask their children, leading to meaningful family conversations and an easy start to Early Literacy. The Story Walk is easily accessible and within walking

Junior Women's League Presents Annual Big Night Out Gala

Smithfield, N.C. - The Junior Women’s League of Smithfield will host its inaugural Big Night Out Gala benefiting ReEntry Family Services and JWL’s Johnston County Blessing Boxes on Saturday, May 21st beginning at 7 p.m. at The Farm at 95.   “The Big Night Out committee is working hard to plan a memorable event after having to pivot the past two years due to the coronavirus pandemic. Our hopes are to gather everyone together for a night of celebration that creates a measurable impact on our community,”

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

Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 88 donates 500 book bags to JCPS

Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 88 donates 500 book bags to JCPS Written By: Robin Koppen, JCPS Communication Specialist   SMITHFIELD, NC - The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #88 (FOP 88) bought and donated 500 backpacks to help children in Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS).  Members of the FOP 88 worked alongside JCPS school social workers, school counselors, student advocates, school nurses, assistant principals, and some central office staff to fill the bags on Thursday, Mar. 17, at the

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

Junior Women's League Presents Over $10,000 Donation To House of Hope

Smithfield, N.C. -  On Thursday, February 17, 2022, the Junior Women’s League of Smithfield presented a check to House of Hope North Carolina for $10,059.06.  Funds were raised at JWL’s 6th Annual Touch-A-Truck event held in downtown Smithfield on Saturday, November 6, 2021.    “We are thankful for the generous support of our sponsors as well as the businesses and individuals who provided trucks, helping us to bring JWL’s Touch-A-Truck event back to Downtown Smithfield and raise much needed funds

Drive Through Christmas Village Returns to the Tobacco Farm Life Museum

The Tobacco Farm Life Museum will host its second annual Drive Through Christmas Village holiday lights this year during the first three weekends of December. This year’s event will build on last year’s decorations with more exhibits and more lights!   The original inspiration for the museum’s “Christmas Village” theme was the miniature porcelain Christmas Villages that adorn many family rooms during the holiday season. The museum’s holiday lights and decorations are also inspired by the rural farming

JERNIGAN FURNITURE OPENS NEW STORE IN SMITHFIELD: Family-Owned Furniture Company Leases Storefront in Pine Needle Square

Smithfield, NC (November 17, 2021) – AdVenture Development, LLC, is pleased to announce that Jernigan Furniture is now open at 721 N. Brightleaf Blvd., Suite 7D, in Pine Needle Square. Jernigan Furniture is a fourth-generation family furniture company founded in downtown Goldsboro in 1924 by Sam Jernigan Sr. Sam’s great grandson, Andrew Jernigan, now leads the family business and looks forward to bringing the company’s “A Sense of Family. A Sense of Home,” mantra to its new Smithfield location. The new

JUNIOR WOMEN’S LEAGUE OF SMITHFIELD’S 6th ANNUAL TOUCH-A-TRUCK FUNDRAISER IS NOV. 6

Smithfield, N.C. -  On Saturday, Nov. 6, the Junior Women's League of Smithfield (JWL) will host its sixth annual Touch-A-Truck event, presented by Anchor Disposal, LLC and McClung’s Electrical and Plumbing, Inc.  Children will have the opportunity to climb in and explore big rigs, emergency vehicles, construction equipment and other big machines that make kids of all ages say "whoa!” in the Narron Wenzel Truck Stop from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the 200 block of S. Third Street in Downtown Smithfield. Bring

Town of Selma Announces The Opening of The Reggie Barnes Basketball Court.

The Town of Selma Parks and Recreation Department announced that the Reggie Barnes Court is now open and ready for play.The Reggie Barnes Basketball Court is located on the campus of the Harrison Gymnasium located at 601 W. Noble Street.  It is situated next to the Jacquelyn J. Lacy Tennis Courts.“Selma is so proud that Reggie was able to give back to the community in which he started.” Stated Parks and Recreation Director, Billy Roach.  “Reggie truly is an inspiration for all the youth here in Selma.  We

JUNIOR WOMEN’S LEAGUE OF SMITHFIELD ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR COMMUNITY IMPACT GRANT RECIPIENTS.

Smithfield, N.C. -- The Junior Women's League of Smithfield (JWL) is excited to announce that we are currently accepting applications for Community Impact Grant recipients for the 2021-2022 league year.  The Community Impact Grant (CIG) allows the Junior Women’s League of Smithfield, Inc. to appropriate monies in a flexible manner to nonprofit community agencies that render services within Johnston County. Priority will be given to organizations whose projects directly benefit the lives of women and

The Town of Selma Presents Miss Hispanic Heritage Johnston County; Kimberly Cortez Manzanares

Selma, NC:  Monday, September 20, 2021 - The Town of Selma announced today the crowning of Miss Hispanic Heritage Johnston County is Kimberly Cortez Manzanares. Ms. Manzanares was born in Goldsboro, is 14 years old and attends the Early Learning College Academy at Johnston Community College in Smithfield as a 9th grader.  She aspires becoming an accountant when she graduates in 2025. Sergio Benitez, co-owner of Sola Creations, the business that is sponsoring Kimberly is excited to present her to Johnston

Town of Selma Announces Grand Marshall for the 46th Annual Railroad Days Parade

Selma, NC:  Friday, September 10, 2021 The Town of Selma Parks and Recreation Department announced today the Grand Marshall for the Railroad Days Parade will be Ms. Deborah Baker. Deborah is the director of Baker School of Dance in Pine Level and a Teacher Assistant at Pine Level Elementary School.  Her dancers have performed at Railroad Days since its beginning.She began the Miss Selma Railroad Days Pageant as Choreographer for a few years starting with the very first pageant in 1980.  Later she became

Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation Announces the Addition of Two Dates for the Third StrEATery!

SMITHFIELD, NC – The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation (DSDC) is excited to announce the addition of two dates for the Third StrEATery, Downtown Smithfield’s Socially Distanced Outside Dining Room and Live Entertainment Venue.  The event will continue on Friday, September 10 and Friday, October 1.  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

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

Local Developer Breaks Ground on Future Business Park

Local Developer Breaks Ground on Future Business ParkCounty and town leaders turned out to mark the investment in Selma  Selma, NC (August 30, 2021) – AdVenture Development, LLC hosted a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the future Eastfield Business Park on Tuesday, August 24, 2021. Ground was broken on the 135,000 SF industrial spec building at 101 E. Providence Blvd in Selma, NC. The spec building, also known as Building 100, is a state-of-the-art industrial project located in a certified North

My Kid’s Club, Selma, NC is demolishing two vacant houses to prepare the land to break ground on a new Clubhouse in early 2022

Readying the Ground Monday, August 2 nd and Tuesday, August 3 rd My Kid’s Club, Selma, NC is demolishing two vacant houses to prepare the land to break ground on a new Clubhouse in early 2022.New Clubhouse In 2016 Hurricane Matthew destroyed the Club building in Selma. My Kid’s Club is now housed in temporary quarters at Selma Elementary School while building a new, permanent headquarters our students can call home. This new building will be the Headquarters for My Kid’s Club, in collaboration with

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

Smithfield River Rat Regatta on the Neuse, Cardboard Boat Race, Returns on August 14

SMITHFIELD, NC – After being delayed and then canceled in 2019 due to weather and the 2020 event being scrubbed due to the COVID-19, the Smithfield Yacht Club will open once again for the River Rat Regatta on the Neuse on Saturday, August 14 at 4:00 p.m.  The event will feature a race between 2-person teams in cardboard boats from Smithfield’s Boat Ramp on N. Front Street to the Deputy C. Paul West, Sr. Bridge.  The boats must be constructed entirely from corrugated cardboard, glue, and duct tape. Entries

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

Junior Women's League of Smithfield Provisional Members Complete Projects to Benefit Johnston County Foster Children and Senior Adults

Smithfield, N.C. --  The Junior Women’s League of Smithfield (JWL) has seen months of hard work by its newest members come to fruition with the completion of two projects by its provisional members to address the needs of foster care children and senior adults in Johnston County.   JWL's provisional members from the Adopt a Golden Angel project provided 150 caddies to residents of Barbour Court Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. Over the past year, long term care facilities have been hit especially hard;

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

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 301 Endless Yard Sale is Happening in 2021

Selma, NC – After last year’s postponement due to COVID and a narrow miss this year due to summer school, the counties along the route are excited to announce this year’s 301 Endless Yard Sale will happen. On Friday, June 18th and Saturday, June 19th, Highway 301 (for over 100 miles) will be filled with excited vendors and shoppers.  Hours of the sale vary by vendor but 7AM to 5PM daily is typical. Event organizers ask participants to please keep in mind that schools along the route will be in session for

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

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

Chamber presents awards at 46th Annual Meeting

The Greater Smithfield-Selma Area Chamber of Commerce held its 46th Annual Meeting on January 25 where it recognized a number of outstanding local citizens. The following awards were presented: Citizen of the Year, sponsored by Woody's Computing Service - Rep. Leo Daughtry of Smithfield, who will be completing a 28 year career in the North Carolina General Assembly in 2016 Distinguished Citizens (two) for long-time service to the community, sponsored by Woody's Computing Service - Mike Parrish of Selma,

Johnston County Visitors Bureau wins awards at Tourism Leadership Conference

The Johnston County Visitors Bureau was recently honored with 2 awards, presented at the recent annual North Carolina Tourism Leadership Conference, held each year by the Destination Marketing Association of North Carolina. The JCVB won a Gold Destination Marketing Achievement Award in Advertising for their Girlfriends Getaway Print Advertising Campaign. In addition, they also won a Gold Destination Marketing Achievement Award in Online Communications for the Bureau's weekly blog.  Outlet shopping is by

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

Johnston Community College Performing Arts announces 25th Anniversary Concert Series

The Performing Arts at Johnston Community College is proud to announce the 25th Anniversary Concert Series line-up.  Season tickets are currently on sale and individual tickets will go on sale August 5th.  Tickets may be purchased by calling the JCC Box Office at (919) 209-2099 or by visiting www.jccperformingarts.com<http://www.jccperformingarts.com>.  Patrons wishing to purchase 3 or more shows may do so as season ticket holders.  Discounts are offered for 3+ shows, military personnel, students, and

JCC Medical Office Student is Academic Excellence Winner

After 18 years of working in the airline industry, Margaret Raynor decided to retire in 2005. She tried several different jobs over the next six years, but she still wasn’t fully satisfied. “One day my husband and I were sitting around talking, and he suggested I go back to school and pursue a career in the medical field,” Raynor of Smithfield recalled. “At first, I didn’t think that was a good idea, because of my age. I was thinking someone my age would have a hard time focusing, concentrating on school

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