January 2024

Jan uary 2024

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[ Publisher ] column

Sometimes,

YOUR JNOW

S

video games. Surely, I could find ways to be ince I started writing these columns back a bit more positive, or perhaps I could finally in 2015, I always arrive at the one for start writing that novel I’ve always wanted January with the same thought: to bring to life.

Don’t do the resolution Looking back at the column. demolition derby that was the On this frosty winter morning, latter half of 2023, I’m struck I started wondering how long by the need to be more present. it had been since I wrote the You never know when the boilerplate January piece “last time” will be. The last about the promises we make to time you hold your child, or ourselves as the calendar flips the last time you pick them up over. After a bit of research, I Randy Capps from school. found that the January 2019 randy@johnstonnow.com In my case, I never knew edition is the last time I went to that the last time I’d ever see that well.

Mike was through our glass door. We all had Since once every few years is OK, I find COVID, and he brought us some teas and myself now pondering resolutions. various medical supplies.

I could certainly spend less money on

After he had taken a few steps back, I tossed some money out on the porch and thanked him, and a few days later, he was gone.

I don’t regret the things I’ve done, but I sure wish I had said something more meaningful to one of my best friends in what turned out to be our last face-to-face conversation.

Hence the idea of being present. Enjoy the moments, keeping in mind that they may never come again.

Say the kind word. Do the nice thing. Be the best version of yourself. Make 2024 the best year it can be for yourself and those close to you.

Happy New Year everyone!

The home is the #1 place youth access alcohol.

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

It’s never too early to start the conversation.

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

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

Set clear guidelines about the expectations in your home.

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

7

A Matter of Principle

9

Selma man in need of kidney transplant

10

14 20

JCPS selects Living Legends

Small changes can net big results in 2024

Publisher Randy Capps

General Manager Shanna Capps

randy@johnstonnow.com

shanna@johnstonnow.com

Marketing Representative Justin Roy

Marketing Representative Wanda Sasser

justin@johnstonnow.com

wanda@johnstonnow.com

Advertising Operations Manager Kayla Stott

Office Manager Terri Atkinson

kayla@johnstonnow.com

terri@johnstonnow.com

Magazine Delivery David Atkinson

Special Projects Manager Jamie Strickland

hello@johnstonnow.com

jamie@johnstonnow.com

919-980-5522 www.johnstonnow.com Facebook.com/JohnstonNow 1300 W. Market Street, Smithfield, N.C. 27577 hello@johnstonnow.com

Community Calendar

Take inventory and regularly check any alcohol in the home.

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

Volume 8, Number 2

A Shandy Communications, LLC publication

Johnston Now Magazine is a monthly publication of Shandy Communications, LLC for our Johnston County neighbors. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent by the publisher.

Advertisers take sole responsibility for the validity of their advertisement. ©2024 Johnston Now. All rights reserved.

A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK!

Learn more: JohnstonSUP.org The Johnston County Substance Use Prevention Coalition is a proud partner of the Poe Center for Health Education. www.poehealth.org “Funded in whole or in part by the SAMHSA Partnerships for Success (PFS) grant awarded to the NC DHHS DMH/DD/SAS # H79SP080986.

4 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Table of

I go with a classic

TEAM

WWW.SMITHFIELD-NC.COM/JOBS [ January 2024 ] • 5

Clayton author releases second book

Apparel, Jewelry, Handbags, and much more!

Submitted by Karen Lauritzen

A 1699 E. Booker Dairy Rd., Smithfield

919-209-0342

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ward-winning Clayton author Karen Lauritzen has just released her second book, “Just The Right Amount of Wrong.” It follows a 23 year old social worker whose broken life and missteps lead her on a spiritual journey

toward a path of redemption.

This work of fiction is set in Chicago in the 1970s and reflects the closed club that was Mayor Richard J. Daley's city.

The author was recently awarded first place in nonfiction in the Porter Fleming Literary Awards.

Both her memoir, “Nothing Vanishes, Memoir of a Life Transformed” and “Just The Right Amount of Wrong” have been nominated for the Eric Hoffer Book Awards.

Karen is a member of the North Carolina Writers Network and Triangle East Writers groups. You can purchase her books on Amazon.com and follow her blog on karenlauritzen. com. You can also learn more about her writing at nothingvanishes.com.

A Matter of Principle:

Dependability has its Rewards

By Qarol Price

A

s I write, I am reminded of an old television commercial from the late 70s for bath powder in which the catch phrase was “Calgon, take me away!” It opens with a young, stressedout professional woman exasperatedly reciting a list of her daily challenges, “The traffic, the boss, the baby, the dog. That does it! Calgon, take me away!”

The velvety throated voiceover goes on to urge us, “Lose your cares in the luxury of a Calgon bath.” Meanwhile, the bedraggled woman is suddenly refreshed, elegantly ensconced in a luscious bubble bath fit for a goddess. The voice-over continues, “It lifts your spirits … Lose yourself in luxury.”

Nothing promotes well being like cozy comforts. It’s that dopamine buzz one gets when absorbed in soothing pleasures that makes you forget your burdens and worries. Oh, to be relieved of the dreadfully uncomfortable feelings that grip our gut throughout our days: the fears, the anxieties, the irritations, the frustrations.

What a valuable gift — to be rid of all that mental and emotional strain, even if only for moments.

I remember how tantalizing the Calgon commercial was for me as a harried high school student. At age 16, I was the advertising manager of a local K-Mart store with reports and deadlines to manage while holding down my 11th grade student responsibilities consisting of, you guessed it, reports and deadlines.

In those days, I could often be heard saying, “Calgon, take me away!”

Do you think the woman relaxing in the bathtub after her long, hard day deserved the embracing comfort of a bubble bath? I am assuming that she did. As we overhear her reviewing her many daily obligations. It seems implicit that she feels satisfaction at having spent her energy precisely by fulfilling her several duties owed to her children, her colleagues, her employer, her pets and her customers!

She aches, but is proud of aching. Just like the athlete happy to have her aches,

bruises, even scars, because she earned them by winning the victory.

Had the woman failed to fulfill her obligations to all those people (and animals) who depend on her, sadly leaving them in the lurch, wouldn’t she feel guilt rather than satisfaction? Her chores may seem trivial, but they are not.

By doing them she is keeping up her end of a covenant she belongs to as a mother, an employee and a friend.

The well-being of others is dependent to some degree on her. And she takes pride in not having let them down.

She can rest satisfied that she isn’t luxuriating to escape her responsibilities but rather because she has fulfilled them.

Her dependability feels just as satisfying as that Calgon bath! ⋆ Next Month: Fairness Qarol Price is a writer and educator. She has taught philosophy to children in Johnston County Public Schools and in Harlem in New York. She is a resident of Selma.

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[ January 2024 ] • 7

BARN SHELTER ANTIQUES

2024

Selma man is in

Make the year of YOU!

Happy New Year!

need of a kidney

By Randy Capps

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Sunday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

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ray Sasser is friendly and engaging. He’s a 73-year-old husband, father and grandfather who’s active in his church and a man that’s made Johnston County his home since 1971.

He’s a retired lighting engineer who has freely given his time and talent to make his community a better place.

And today he needs a kidney. “(In 1971) I went to work for Smithfield Electric Supply Company and from there I went to Carolina Power and Light,” he said. “And then I left Carolina Power and Light. In 1981, I went to Westinghouse Lamp, and I started traveling. And I didn't stop traveling until I retired in 2016.”

What should have been a happy time with family and friends took an unexpected turn.

“Well, I thought, ‘hey, I finally hung up my shingle. I'm retired and I'm doing great,’” he said.

“We had Christmas and on December the 26th, I woke up, got my feet off the bed. I was heading to the bathroom and all of a sudden I felt like I had a flaming arrow on my left hip and my left calf muscle, and I said, ‘good golly, what in the world?’”

After a series of exams, it was determined that there was a bone spur pressing on his sciatic nerve. There was also something else — a mass on his left kidney.

So, two procedures were planned. The back surgery happened in 2017, and initially, it was a success. But the relief didn’t last very long.

“Everything was great, he said. “I came home. I mean, I was out walking two to three

miles with my wife, no problem.

And then wham! The back pain is back. I didn't have the hip and calf pain, but I had back pain and it was horrible.

“What had happened is I had gotten an infection from the incision on the back surgery, and it's so rare. It was a 1-in10,000,000 situation. … He went in laparoscopically and then found an artery going directly to the tumor. So he didn't have any option but to open me up because he said if he tried to do it that way, I would have bled out and died. So, they opened me up and took the kidney out.”

Roughly one in around 750 people are born with only one kidney, so his prognosis at that point was pretty favorable. “(The doctors said) ‘I believe you'll be fine. I believe you're so healthy,’” he said. “Your kidneys should grow and get bigger and take up the slack. Well, it did, but it was slow at doing it.

And then it started declining to the point that now I'm on the transplant list, waiting, hoping that someone will donate a kidney.”

The clock is ticking, since the average wait time on the donor list is about six years. With a cut off of 80, that means that Sasser has less than seven years to wait — or find his own donor.

“My insurance pays for all their testing. And trust me, it's not as complete and thorough as what I had, but it's still a two day process,” he said. “I just

recently heard a story from a nephrologist about this young man who was in his 20s who needed a kidney. And so all his fraternity brothers (went to get tested). Out of 20, zero passed. … So, you can get the best physical of your life for free.”

In addition to giving the literal gift of life, kidney donors also move to the top of the list in the unlikely event that they wind up needing one themselves.

“My daughter said it best when she put it on Facebook that my dad has so much to live for,” he said. “I have a lot to live for. I don't feel like the Lord is done with me yet. I feel like he has more that he has for me to do, and I need a kidney to be able to do it more fully.

“I did not expect what happened. But, as my mom always said, you play the cards you're dealt. There's a big need.

I'd like to help others as well as myself. I'd like to get the word out. Most people are born with two kidneys. And if you're healthy, what's wrong with sharing the spare? Jesus said, ‘greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. Well, you don't have to give your life, but you can donate a spare organ.”

To learn more about the kidney donation process, visit www.uncmedicalcenter. org/uncmc/care-treatment/ transplant-care/living-organdonation.

Daughters of the American Revolution hand out awards, honor service at monthly meeting Logan Schall

At the November meeting of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Smith-Bryan Chapter, Logan Schall was honored as their Outstanding Youth Volunteer.

He is a Life Scout, a junior firefighter and a children's church leader. He has volunteered more than 385 hours to the service to veterans in Johnston County. Logan was presented a certificate by Chapter Regent Francis Kiker and Service to Veterans chairman Pam Schall. Logan is the son of Michael and Stacey Schall of Smithfield.

Devell Durham, Jr.

The chapter presented a certificate to Devell Durham, Jr. USMC (Ret.) as their Outstanding Veteran Volunteer in its November meeting.

Durham was also presented with an American flag flown over Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. He is always willing and available to assist with any need of a veteran or veteran organization throughout Johnston County to ensure that Johnston County maintains the highest standard of taking care of its veterans. He’s married to Tina Durham and has four children

and four grandchildren. The certificates and flag were presented by Chapter Regent Francis Kiker and Service to Veterans chairman Pam Schall.

Michael Schall

Michael Schall presented the POW/MIA Missing Man Table ceremony at the Daughters of the American Revolution Smith-Bryan chapter's November meeting in Smithfield. Schall is a U.S. Navy veteran and a member of American Legion Post 132.

[ January 2024 ] • 9

Board of Education presents 2023-2024

Living Legend Awards Submitted by Johnston County Public Schools

S

MITHFIELD — During the December regular session meeting, the Board of Education recognized the 2023-2024 Living Legends Ethel Breeden Armwood, Ruth Edwards High and Bruce Bunn.

The Living Legend Award is presented to former Johnston County Public Schools educators who were dedicated to the children they taught and left a legacy of influential teaching styles.

This is the 20th year of honoring the Living Legends of Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS). Twenty years is celebrated with platinum, a symbol of strength and endurance. These honorees have demonstrated strength and endurance with JCPS for a combined total of approximately 100 years as educators.

Armwood worked as a K-3 teacher at Pine Level Elementary, and later returned as a substitute following retirement. “I was a very happy kindergarten teacher and I wanted my students to be happy learners,” she said.

The Fayetteville State University Alum’s philosophy of an effective teacher is the belief that every child can

learn. She believes that the role of the teacher is to explore ways and find the gift in each student, so they can reach their highest potential.

High served the district in many ways, primarily as a lead kindergarten through sixth grade teacher and AIG director.

Her philosophy for being a successful teacher includes having love and respect for each child, having a passion for teaching and believing that there isn’t one career path for every student. Her philosophy also includes incorporating empathy, introducing critical ▸ The 2023-2024 JCPS

Living Legends were recognized at the regular session Board of Education meeting in December. Pictured (from left) are: Ethel Armwood, Ruth High and Bruce Bunn.

thinking skills and implementing hands-on learning to teach students life skills.

She is a graduate of Meredith College, East Carolina University and North Carolina State University. While a student at Meredith College she received the Alumni Award from the Department of Psychology.

Bunn served in many capacities as an educator, including teacher, interim principal, assistant principal and principal. After retirement, he returned to JCPS as a temporary administrator, serving as an Interim Principal and assisting

Human Resources.

The Appalachian State and East Carolina University graduate said, “Teachers must believe that every child can learn and proceed accordingly.

That is their job, to find the most appropriate way for each child to learn. Students don’t care how much a teacher knows unless they know that the teacher cares for students.”

Bunn taught middle school social studies, and served as principal at West Clayton.

Johnston County Public Schools has a rich legacy of legendary educators. These three individuals will have their names added to the long list of legendary educators hanging inside the Living Legends Room of the Evander S. Simpson Building located at 2320 US 70 Business Highway East in Smithfield.

LaunchJOCO initiative

holds graduation and welcome ceremony

Submitted by Clayton Chamber of Commerce

C

LAYTON — The LaunchJOCO Initiative celebrated a significant milestone with the graduation of its 2023 class and the warm welcome of the 2024 group.

This annual event, held at the Johnston County Community Center, marked the culmination of a year-long journey for 15 ambitious entrepreneurs who benefited from business mentorship and development opportunities.

The LaunchJOCO program is a collaborative effort involving key partners

a master's degree Assurance Aging Conference, Johnston County welcomes obtaining in clinical social work from which showcased her abilities University. Her to innovate and collaborate new Social Services Director Fordham experience includes roles as an with her team.

Submitted by Johnston County

S

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10 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

such as the Benson Chamber of Commerce, Central Johnston Rotary Club, Clayton Chamber of Commerce, Clayton Chamber Foundation, Clayton Rotary Club, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Johnston County Chapter, Small Business Center of JCC and Triangle East Chamber of Commerce.

This year's ceremony was particularly notable for the graduation of 15 entrepreneurs who have been diligently paired with seasoned business mentors.

These mentors have guided them through the intricate process of business development, offering insights into funding resources and invaluable mentorship.

Their hard work and dedication were acknowledged in a speech by Clayton Chamber President, Dana Wooten.

“As we gather to honor the achievements of our graduates, it's also a moment to ignite the spark of ambition in our new participants,” she said. “Through our program, we provide the essential tools and knowledge that empower our entrepreneurs to defy the odds, to not only survive but to thrive and contribute to the economic vibrancy of Johnston County.”

In a show of support, KS Bank awarded five $1,000 grants to distinguished graduates: Joy Avery of Lady Lioness Handmades, Porsha Green of Vision Focused Optix, Angeline Martin of Deliverance Worldwide LLC, Maryrose Nelson of Song & Story Creative Therapies and Lola Price of With Love, Lola.

Additionally, Bernice Reynolds of Clayton Women in Networking presented a special $1,500 grant to Shannon Sellers of Showing My Roots.

Melissa Overton, LaunchJOCO Project Manager and owner of MedicalTraining.me, concluded the ceremony with a message, quoting Steve Harvey: “The dream is free, but the hustle is sold separately.”

“As we congratulate the class of 2023, we also welcome the Class of 2024 and challenge you to put the work in so that you get your maximum return on investment from this life-changing program,” she said.

As LaunchJOCO continues to foster entrepreneurial spirit in Johnston County, the initiative is now opening its doors for mentor applications for 2024.

For more information about LaunchJOCO, visit www.claytonchamber.com/launchjoco. html.

MITHFIELD — The Johnston County Department of Social Services recently welcomed a new director with nearly 30 years of experience in the social work field. Christine M. Dowdell brings a wealth of expertise in child welfare and a proven track record of leadership as she takes on the role as Johnston County DSS Director.

Dowdell's extensive career includes serving as the former director of Forsyth County Social Services in Winston

Salem and a stint as the director of social services in Chowan County. She began her journey of compassionate care for those in need in New York, where she worked in preventive services and with the homeless population. Her dedication to the field led her to North Carolina, where she embarked on a career in child welfare as a Child Protective Services and Adoptions Social Worker.

A proud alumna of Kean University in New Jersey, Dowdell earned her bachelor's degree in social work and furthered her education by

outpatient therapist, licensed social worker, child welfare supervisor in Mecklenburg County and as a social work program consultant/trainer with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

With a strong commitment to education, she excelled in her role as a college lecturer, teaching child psychology, social work and counseling courses at Bennett College, Wingate University and Johnson C. Smith College.

She also helped establish Forsyth County's first Quality

"I am honored that the DSS Board has selected me as the next Director of the Johnston County Department of Social Services,” she said. “I am very committed to helping others improve their lives, strengthening families, as well as ensuring the safety among our children and adult populations. I look forward to working with staff, community partners, the DSS Board, County administration, and our County Commissioners."

For more information about Johnston County DSS, visit JohnstonNC.com/DSS.

[ January 2024 ] • 11

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Smithfield-Selma High School hosts robotics event

S

MITHFIELD — f(x) Robotics, a pioneering force in the field of robotics education, proudly announces the resounding success of the largest FIRST LEGO League (FLL) qualifier in the state of North Carolina. The event, held at Smithfield-Selma High School, attracted more than 700 students from various schools across the state.

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a global robotics community that engages young minds in exciting, mentor-based programs to foster innovation and inspire a passion for science and technology.

FLL is specifically designed for elementary and middle school students. It challenges

teams to design, build and program autonomous robots using LEGO MINDSTORMS technology, and it develops critical thinking and teamwork skills to solve real-world problems. f(x) Robotics took center stage as the host of this monumental event, bringing together budding talents from diverse backgrounds. The Smithfield-Selma High School venue provided an ideal setting for the intense competition and collaborative spirit that defines the FLL experience, attracting 48 eager teams to the tournament (more teams than the upcoming FLL State Championship).

"We are thrilled to have orchestrated the largest FLL qualifier in North Carolina," said Angela Jenkins, Teacher Liaison and Lead Mentor for f(x) Robotics. "Witnessing the

enthusiasm and creativity of over 700 students is a testament to the impact of hands-on robotics education."

In addition to the FLL participants, the tournament welcomed FIRST teams from other grade levels, creating an immersive experience that showcased the continuum of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) education and its exciting possibilities.

The event featured not only competitive robotics matches but also emphasized teamwork and problem-solving, the core

values of FIRST. f(x) Robotics extends its gratitude to the students, mentors, volunteers, and sponsors whose dedication made this event a remarkable success. This is f(x) Robotics’ third time hosting an FLL tournament, and they will be hosting another one for high schoolers in February 2024.

The organization remains committed to fostering a love for STEAM education and empowering the next generation of innovators, and it will be hosting these tournaments for years to come.

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[ January 2024 ] • 13

Small changes can bring

big results in the New Year

▸ CrossFit 4042 owners Amy and Mitchell Locklear.

By Jamie Strickland

I

f improving your health and wellness is among your resolutions this year, Johnston County has no shortage of opportunities to help you reach those goals.

Local experts agree that implementing exercise, nutrition and a focus on mental wellbeing are the most important tools.

But that doesn’t mean a total overhaul of your entire lifestyle is necessary. Something as simple as incorporating a daily walk can be a step in the right direction,

14 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

said Amy Locklear, a Level 2 CrossFit Coach and owner of CrossFit 4042 in Garner.

“Just start. It doesn’t matter if you go for a daily walk or train in a gym, you just have to start,” she said.

Locklear, who has been coaching clients for more than 10 years, said most people pursue a fitness routine for weight loss, but end up finding many other benefits.

“An increase in energy, sleeping better at night, and just being happier are just a few,” she said. “Some medical benefits

are reversing diabetes, lowering blood pressure and lowering cholesterol. The weight loss is great but the medical benefits are life saving.”

Locklear said CrossFit has something to offer for people of all ages and abilities. “I have seen so many people change and improve their quality of life through CrossFit,” she said. “We have elite athletes, stay at home moms, 76-year-old grandmothers and athletes with multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy. Each athlete works to their abilities and we scale appropriately

so they each get the intended stimulus of the workout.”

“Starting small” is also Locklear’s approach towards counseling clients about their nutrition.

“I do not advise people to diet,” she said. “Most diets fail or any weight loss comes back when the diet is over. Making small lifestyle changes is the best way to sustain weight loss. A diet of balanced food is best.”

Smithfield-based holistic health practitioner Valerie Johnson has a similar approach to nutrition advice.

“The key to improving nutrition is balance,” she said.

Johnson also believes a little gardening can be a motivator toward eating healthier.

“Grow your own herbs and vegetables. Maybe you don’t have land of your own, but like I do, get raised garden beds and load them up with plants. As long as I do this I eat better and healthier.”

Locklear said reducing sugar intake is another simple tip that can lead to big changes. “If you drink sugary drinks, simply cutting back on the amount you drink can make a big impact.

Increasing water consumption can also help with hunger,” she said.

Johnson, who is trained in healing touch, aromatherapy,

spiritual direction, counseling and guided meditation said focusing on mental health is an important part of any wellness journey.

“First, love yourself no matter where you are and how you feel at this moment. Don’t try to

conquer everything immediately or all at one time,” she said. “Just begin with simple things that can be done in brief moments at first.”

Recruiting friends or loved ones to join you in your health journey in another recommendation to help get you started.

“Find a buddy to do it with you. Not only is it more fun, but they will offer accountability.

If someone is expecting you, it’s much harder to back out,” Locklear said.

Husband and wife duo Trey and Jenny Ayscue have been exercising at CrossFit 4042 for more than 10 years, and they agree that the social aspect is key.

“I enjoy the interaction with friends in class and being able to do physical things that I could not have done before CrossFit. Having an interactive class style workout makes it fun,” Trey Ayscue said. “Having my wife there working out with me gives us a common workout and results to talk about. We both have our own specialties and favorites.”

Jenny Ayscue said having similar exercise habits as her husband allows them to mutually support each other.

Some of our favorite places to get some steps in JoCo:

 Clemmons Educational State Forest - Clayton  River Walk on the Neuse - Clayton  Smithfield Walking Tour  Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center - Four Oaks  Bentonville Battlefield’s Trails  Buffalo Creek Greenway - Smithfield

Other Resources:

 Smithfield Recreation and Aquatic Center  Clayton Community Center  Selma Outdoor Fitness Court  Private gyms, fitness centers and personal trainers and coaches  Explore options for all ages through each town's Parks & Recreation department

 Senior citizens can check into options offered through the Centers for Active Aging in Benson, Clayton and Selma

“Sometimes we team up in competitions and other times, we provide healthy competition for each other. Knowing he’s going to Crossfit absolutely helps me go when I am not feeling it,” she said. “Working out together is just something we do now. What I really appreciate is that he always

supports me going and taking care of myself.”

No matter what your health and fitness goals may be, taking the first step is the only way to begin.

“The best time to start a fitness program is yesterday, the second best time is today,” Locklear said.

Happ

New Year!

Every moment deserves to be heard.

We can help!

Now Open ro! in Goldsbo

We are raising awareness in our community of the importance of hearing health and hearing loss treatment. We strive to provide quality treatment options to all who are in need.

▸ CrossFit Coach and gym owner Amy Locklear has been coaching clients like husband

and wife duo Trey and Jenny Ayscue for more than 10 years. They agree that working out with friends or loved ones helps people stay motivated.

We accept all major health insurance plans.

[ January 2024 ] • 15

Hot Chocolate Smoothies Lattes (Iced or Hot) Frappes

2024 New Year's Resolution:

1. I will shop locally!

2. I will only spill my coffee once in a while 3. I will work harder at spreading the word of "GREAT COFFEE" locally at Coffee on Raiford!

EAT. DRINK. SHOP. LIVE. LOVE.

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THE FLU, PNEUMONIA, & SHINGLES, RSV, Covid-19

Middle school students compete in JCPS district math event

Adoptable Pet of the Month

DTSmithfield

Welcome to the Realo Family

Tucker’s foster mom can’t call him a good boy often enough, so she gave him “Good-Boy” as his middle name. Now everyone can call him that! He has no behavior issues and is a very quick learner. He learned to fetch in five minutes and picked up several commands on the second or third attempt. He now asks to go out and walks well on a leash. Tucker likes to make his own bed by arranging his blankets in a certain way. Tucker also likes to sit with you on the couch. If he wants to get closer, he will sit on your arm or chest. Tucker is a handsome and fine boy who will bring laughter and silliness into your life. Tucker is house trained and crate trained. He is 65 lbs and is 3 years old.

Submitted by Johnston County Public Schools

J

ohnston County Public Schools (JCPS) held the MathCounts district competition last month at Johnston Community College.

“Mathletes” from 10 JCPS middle school teams participated in the event. The competition consisted of four separate events that included sprint, target, team and countdown rounds. Last year, around 75 students competed in MATHCOUNTS. “The annual MathCounts events are great opportunities for our students to showcase their brilliance in a fun and friendly environment, and highlight the strength of the district’s math curriculum at the same time,” said Amanda Byrd, JCPS Teaching & Learning Secondary Math Specialist.

McGee’s Crossroads Middle student Orrin Lam was the firstplace individual winner. Coming in second was Elliot White of Cleveland Middle and North Johnston Middle’s Aiden Ernst claimed third.

In the team event, the Cleveland Middle team won first place, second place went to the North Johnston Middle Jaguars and McGee’s Crossroads Middle rounded out the team competition in third.

These three schools now move on to the MATHCOUNTS

▸ Orrin Lam, a student at McGee’s

Crossroads Middle, won first place in the MATHCOUNTS individual category.

chapter competition that will be held in Raleigh in February. The competition series has four levels of competition — school, chapter, state and national.

MATHCOUNTS provides engaging and fun math programs to U.S. middle school students of all ability levels to build confidence, and improve attitudes about math and problem solving.

“This is a district-wide event that is provided by many people.

We are grateful for the many agencies and organizations, particularly Johnston Community College for helping to provide this for our students,” said Byrd.

Contact the JCAPL to meet Tucker or any of their adoptable pets! jcapl.org • 919-989-7601 • help@jcapl.org

Woodard Drug Store 102 E Edwards St Princeton, NC 27569

919-936-3151 M-F 8:30am - 6:00pm Sat 8:30am - 12:30pm Sun Closed

16 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

January's pet of the month is sponsored by Rainbow Bridge Hospice Rescue rainbowbridgerescue.org ▸ Students from Cleveland Middle earned a first place trophy in the team division.

[ January 2024 ] • 17

Lumos breaks ground in Clayton as part of fiber-optic expansion Submitted by Lumos

C

LAYTON — Lumos, a leading 100 percent fiber-optic internet service provider in the Mid-Atlantic, broke ground recently in Clayton, in partnership with the Clayton Chamber of Commerce, signaling the start of its construction process to build its network locally. With this expansion, thousands of homes and small businesses in Clayton will have access to Lumos' ultra-fast internet.

“The partnership between Lumos, Clayton and Johnston County is an innovative approach in providing a multitude of services to benefit the entire community,” said U.S.

Senator Thom Tillis. “I applaud their efforts in connecting Johnston County residents with fast, reliable internet service.”

This community is the first to begin construction after Lumos announced its $50 million investment in Johnston and Harnett County. Lumos will be the first fiber-optic internet provider for many homes in Clayton, changing families' lives through affordable access to a network advanced enough for their current and future digital needs.

Lumos' development in the Clayton area comes from partnerships with the town of Clayton, Johnston County and the Clayton Chamber of Commerce. Through these

partnerships, Lumos is proactively working to bridge the digital divide by expanding its 100 percent fiber-optic network into unserved and underserved neighborhoods in North Carolina.

"As society grows more digitally dependent, fiber internet becomes essential for keeping up with the day-to-day," said Lumos CEO Brian Stading. "The Town of Clayton recognizes the importance of fast, reliable internet, and we are honored they chose Lumos 100 percent fiber-optic internet to provide community members with internet built to support the future of Clayton."

"The Clayton Town Council and staff are enthusiastic supporters of expanding the availability of high-speed broadband. We are excited to hear about the investment that will be made in Clayton and our underserved communities," said Clayton Mayor Jody McLeod. "This partnership will catapult us across the digital divide and keep us competitive in terms of economic development."

Lumos is committed to informing communities about its construction process. Community members will receive construction notices by mail and can check Lumos’ website to see if its 100 percent fiberoptic internet is available at their address or when it will be at www.lumosfiber.com/ builtforthefuture.

There's Romance in the Air

By Triangle East Writers

G

arner resident and children’s book author, Dorothy La Motta, launched her debut novella, “The Italian Charmer,” at the Old North State Food Hall in Selma on December 3, part of the Creative Minds Holiday Extravaganza.

This sweetly spiced love story with two unforgettable characters is full of romantic escapades around the world, a touch of wisdom, a fascinating charm bracelet that leads the couple to an unexpected twist, and their “happily ever after.”

La Motta’s culinary tale of love is bookended by a photo of her La Regina Della Cucina (“Queen of the Kitchen”) embroidered apron and five of her beloved family recipes, from classic French chateaubriand, and Italian veal saltimbocca, to prosciutto bread, cannoli and biscotti.

Members of the Triangle East Writers, for whom La Motta serves as treasurer, can vouch for the delicious dishes with which she has feted them at board meetings and holiday parties.

La Motta composed several drafts of the manuscript throughout 2023, sharing it chapter by chapter with a small group that meets monthly for critique at Coffee on Raiford in Selma. Her critique partners include writers from Smithfield (Gary Ridout and Evelyn Parham), Pine Level (Cindy Brookshire, Julie Johnson and Evelyn Wool), Benson (Barbara Crowley) and Clayton (Cindy Draughon). The book cover is an original painting by Four Oaks artist and Johnston County Arts

Council president Judy Boyette.

“I adore Judy’s artwork of what I envisioned, two love birds in a charm, surrounded by flowers,” said La Motta. “I hope the book finds a home as a holiday, wedding or Valentine’s Day gift, or as a relaxing treat for those who just love to cuddle up with a good book and dream, reminisce and cherish the tender world of romance.”

She has sprinkled the book with her words of wisdom from a long and fulfilling marriage and she includes book club discussion questions at the back.

Her other books are “The Adventures of Sir Crumsby Cricket” and “Oliver the Octopus and the Spooky Ghost.” She is a member of the North Carolina Writers Network, the Triangle Association of Freelancers and is featured as a spotlight artist in the 2023 book, “Johnston County Creates: 50 Years of Creativity.”

Her books are available on Amazon and Kindle.

For more information, contact Dorothy La Motta at justadotintime@yahoo.com.

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[ January 2024 ] • 19

Add your organization’s events to the community calendar at www.JohnstonNow.com or email us at calendar@JohnstonNow.com.

For the full community calendar with hundreds of area events, visit www.JohnstonNow.com

calendar of events

20 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Saturday, Jan 6, 10 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 20, 7 p.m.

Taught by Shanna Capps from JNOW Digital, this online webinar is designed to educate existing and prospective small business owners on the overview of steps and processes that should be followed when starting a new small business in North Carolina.

The webinar includes an explanation of what is a hobby, an illegal business versus a legal business according to IRS and NC Department of Revenue laws. The webinar content will provide information to assist in making betterinformed decisions before and after becoming a small business owner. Attendees must be pre-registered, and MUST be 18 or older to attend. To register, visit www.ncsbc.net/reg. aspx?mode=event&eve nt=280440001.

Jason Crabb’s electrifying stage presence, powerhouse vocals and magnetic personality have endeared him to millions across the world through extensive personal appearances, media coverage and social media including over 20 million views on YouTube. Catch him live at The Rudy!

⋆ Starting a Small Business (virtual)

Tuesday, Jan. 9, 3 p.m.

⋆ Free Narcan Training → Johnston County Agricultural Center, N.C. 210, Smithfield

Join Johnston County Public Health, Local Law Enforcement and the Johnston County Opioid Task Force to learn how to recognize and respond to an opiate overdose. Narcan will be available to those who attend the training on a first come, first served basis. This is a free event!

⋆ Jason Crabb in concert → Rudy Theatre, Selma

Saturday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m. ⋆ Love Sick Drifters in concert → Rudy Theatre, Selma

Check out The Lovesick Drifters, a Hank Williams Sr., tribute show, live at The Rudy.

Recurring events NAMI Support Groups and Classes The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers free weekly support groups throughout Johnston County for both those who are in recovery with mental illness (NAMI Connection) and for their caregivers, loved ones and friends as well (NAMI Family Support). For more information on the support groups and educational classes of NAMI Johnston County, visit www.namijcnc. net, email namijcnc@gmail. com or call 919-980-5277.

Every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, 6 p.m.

⋆ Smithfield Running Club

Join the Smithfield Running

Club each week to meet new people, get back in shape, train for races and explore the growing downtown area of Smithfield.

For more information, find them on Facebook by searching for Smithfield Running Club or email smithfieldrunningclub@ gmail.com.

Second and Fourth Tuesdays, 7 a.m.

play. For more information, contact the center at 919553-4350.

First and third Tuesdays, Noon ⋆ Clayton Rotary Mid-day Club → Virtual meeting via Zoom

This small group of serviceminded individuals is very dedicated to community betterment in Clayton and Johnston County.

⋆ Cleveland School Rotary Club → Cleveland Draft House, Garner

First and third Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.

Every Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.

This group gathers for fellowship and business.

The dinner is self-pay. The meal begins at 5:30 and the meeting begins at 6.

Come learn about the club and how it helps with local community service projects.

For more information, contact Jana Peedin at 919934-1913.

Cleveland School Rotary Club meets bi-weekly and serves the citizens of the 40/42 area of Johnston County and Garner. ⋆ Smithfield Kiwanis Club Meeting → Golden Corral, Smithfield

Come for dinner and learn about this volunteer service club with a focus on actively supporting children’s programs. Learn about Smithfield and neighboring communities from weekly presenters.

There are community and social opportunities as well.

Visit www.facebook.com/ KiwanisClubOfSmithfieldNC to learn more.

Every Wednesday, 2 p.m. ⋆ Trivia Party → Clayton Center for Active Aging

Join the folks at Clayton Center for Active Aging with trivia each Wednesday at 2 p.m. Call 919-295-9163 to

⋆ Smithfield Lions Club → Golden Corral, Smithfield

First and third Thursdays, 6:45 p.m. ⋆ Clayton Civitan Club meeting → Clayton Civitan Building, McCullers St., Clayton

Join the Clayton Civitan Club for its monthly meetings.

Call 919-550-0694 for more information.

First and third Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. ⋆ Fellowship Masonic Lodge #84 meeting → Fellowship Masonic Lodge #84, S. Brightleaf Blvd., Smithfield

Fellowship Masonic Lodge #84 meets the first and third

Thursday of each month.

Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m., and visitors are welcome. The lodge will open at 7:30 p.m. For more information, email Grover Dees at gdees1@nc.rr.com.

First Tuesday, Noon

⋆ Clayton Visual Arts meeting → The Clayton Center

Clayton Visual Arts is a nonprofit 501c3 organization dedicated to bringing art to Clayton. Its members are artists, educators and art lovers. CVA engages and promotes the visual arts and strives to emphasize quality, diversity and accessibility to all local artists. Please consider joining and help support the arts in Clayton.

Monthly meetings are the first Tuesday of the month from noon to 1 p.m. at The Clayton Center in the Poole Room on the second floor.

They also host monthly artist receptions on the first or second Thursday of the month from 6-7:30 p.m. at The Clayton Center.

For more information, visit www.claytonvisualarts.org or contact Dave Lennon at davelennonart@yahoo.com.

Second Monday, 6 p.m.

PACT meeting

⋆ Virtual Meeting via Google Meet

Parents of Adult Children in Transition meets the second Monday of each month.

To learn more about this program which benefits families coping with special needs, contact Jeff Holland at hollandjeff@yahoo.com.

Second Tuesday, 7 p.m.

⋆ Freedom Ministry → Total Construction, 3719 N.C. 42 W, Clayton

Freedom Ministry is a Christian-based organization providing support for veterans, active duty military and spouses. To learn more about the group, call 919909-6422.

Second Wednesday, 11:30 a.m.

⋆ Johnston County Chapter of National Association of Active and Retired Federal Employees meeting → Golden Corral, Smithfield

Join the Johnston County Chapter of National Association of Active and Retired Federal Employees for their monthly meeting on the second Wednesday of each month at Golden Corral.

Stay up to date on the latest educational programs and federal and state legislation affecting current federal employees and retirees. To learn more, email jimnow42@ gmail.com.

Second Wednesday, noon

⋆ The Woman’s Club of Clayton meeting → TWCC building, Church St., Clayton

The Woman’s Club of Clayton is a nonprofit philanthropic organization made up of professional women who share a common goal: to work together to improve our local community, socially, physically, culturally and educationally. Please consider joining to help

serve those in need of assistance. TWCC meets at noon the second Wednesday of each month (except June, July and August). For more information visit www.twccnc.org or email sbrooks@twccnc.org.

Every Thursday, Noon

⋆ Central Johnston County Rotary Club → Johnston Medical Mall, Suite 1404, Smithfield

Join a group of diverse business and professional people that promotes leadership and ethical behavior, provides scholarships and spreads peace. Learn more at www. centraljohnstonrotary.org.

Second Thursday, 6 p.m. ⋆ Triangle East Writers

Join a hard-working group of local writers and poets, beginner to advanced, who network, critique each other’s work, listen to guest authors and organize open mics and write-ins around the county. It’s free and open to the public. The meeting rotates to different venues around the county.

For this month’s location or more information, email facilitator Cindy Brookshire at triangleeastwriters@ gmail.com.

Every other Monday, 6 p.m.

⋆ K iwanis Club of Clayton → Virtual meeting

The Kiwanis Club of Clayton serves the community with emphasis on school youth [ January 2024 ] • 21

Kiwanis programs. It advises two local high school KEY (Kiwanis Educating Youth) clubs and one elementary school club and meets each month. Visit www.facebook. com/ClaytonKiwanis to learn more.

widowed males and females to join them at their monthly self-pay dinner meeting.

There is no charge to join their group. Come and see what they’re all about.

Call 919-965-3865 with any questions.

→ Virtual meeting via Zoom

Third Monday, 7 p.m.

Third Tuesday

⋆ Clayton Area Toastmasters meetings → JCC Workforce Development Center

The Smithfield Chapter 990 meeting of the Vietnam Veterans of America is every third Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

The Johnston County AfricanAmerican Caucus meets every third Tuesday of the month. Attend in person or visit www.us02web.zoom. us/j/9216132965 to attend via Zoom. The Meeting ID is 921 613 2965. For more information, email AACJCDP. chair@gmail.com or call 954696-7833.

⋆ Vietnam Veterans of America → S mithfield American Legion Post 132

Third Monday, 6:30 p.m. ⋆ Johnston County Beekeepers Association meeting → Johnston County Ag Center

The Johnston County Beekeepers Association serves beginner and experienced beekeepers with educational programs and experiences. They teach and encourage better apiculture methods and promote cooperation and sharing among beekeepers, homeowners and farmers.

The monthly meetings are free and open to everyone.

For more information, visit www.jocobee.org or email JCBAPresident@jocobee.org.

Third Tuesday, 12:30 p.m. ⋆ Widowed Persons Fellowship Group → Parkside Cafe, Pine Level

The Widowed Persons Fellowship Group, Johnston County, cordially invites 22 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

⋆ Johnston County AfricanAmerican Caucus meeting → 1302 W. Market St., Smithfield

Third Thursday

⋆ Johnston County Republican Women

The Johnston County Republican Women meet on the third Thursday of each month (except in July and December). Their meeting location changes monthly.

For more information email jcrwrocks@gmail.com.

Every Thursday morning, 70 service-minded people, representing all ages, genders and races meet.

Learn more at www. claytonrotaryclub.org.

Every Thursday, 6:15 p.m.

Clayton Area Toastmasters is a public speaking club in affiliation with Toastmasters International. Meetings can also be offered via Zoom if requested by a member.

For more, visit www. claytontm.com.

First Thursday, 6:30 p.m.

⋆ Four Oaks American Legion meeting → American Legion Building, Hwy. 301, Four Oaks

All veterans are encouraged to attend the monthly

ROOFING

meeting of Four Oaks American Legion Post 346 on the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

THAT LASTS A LIFETIME!

Fourth Thursday, 6 p.m.

⋆ Caring Hearts Civitan Club → Cleveland Draft House, Shotwell Road, Clayton

Caring Hearts Civitan Club would like to invite anyone interested in helping others in the Johnston County area to come to its meetings on the fourth Thursday of each month, excluding July.

The club is a service-based volunteer organization that seeks members who are like-minded and would like to partner with other clubs and support worthy causes. Dinner begins at 6 and the meeting at 7. Those interested in attending or making a presentation about their organization should email grahamhound1966@ gmail.com.

Our mission is to rescue senior dogs or those with significant health issues that need lifelong care.

• Roofing • Shingles • Siding • Gutters

Four of our newest fur babies. We need your help please check out their Go Fund Me Pages

5750 N.C. Hwy. 50 N., Benson

919-894-9904

robco@robcoresidential.com

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We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization. All donations are tax deductible.

After Christmas Sale

Up to 70% off of select items Tuesday only: 10% off on entire purchase 10% off for Military

Fourth Monday, 6:30 p.m.

⋆ Disabled American Veterans meeting → Smithfield DAV, Buffalo Road

Smithfield Chapter 44 of the Disabled American Veterans meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Every Thursday, 6:45 a.m. ⋆ Clayton Rotary Morning Club

SHOP

ONLINE or visit our store!

49 JR Road Unit D, Selma

252-205-1782

Overthemoonboutiquenc.com [ January 2024 ] • 23

open HOUSE C O M M U N I T Y

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MARCH 23, 2024 1 0 A M - 2 P M Our Spr ing Open Hous e is a family a ffa ir with ex citing a ctivities fo r the kids , food, deta iled pro gram infor ma tion, a nd g uided to urs o f our be a utiful ca mpus.

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www.johnstoncc.edu 24 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]