December 2023

JANUARY 2022

De ce m be r 20 23

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in the not-so-corporate world a nursery than a marketing t would have been easy to agency. find a stock photo of a baby But we don’t mind. The one for the cover of this magazine. thing that we never try to lose As luck would have it, however, sight of here at the good ship we didn’t have to leave the JNOW is the fact that we very office to find our cover model. much want to be a company You see, Brentley is the for which we would like to office baby. Well, technically he work. So that’s why, on a brisk belongs to Kayla, but the rest Randy Capps November morning, Shanna of us claim him, too. He hangs randy@johnstonnow.com and I were roaming the aisles out with us a few mornings each at Belk and Bealls looking for Brentley week to help offset the cost of childcare. outfits instead of putting out this magazine At least that’s how we sold it to Kayla. or fixing someone’s Google page.

The truth is that Shanna and I like Side note: Why are there so many more having a baby in the office. Sure, it doesn’t cute girls' clothes than boys’? do much for our productivity — and the We finally found a couple, plus a bonus floor around Shanna’s desk looks more like

Thanksgiving ensemble, and set out to execute our cover shoot plan. Of course, his feeding and nap schedule, not to mention his mood, dictated a few changes to that operation.

It was fun and a tad hectic, which served as a nice change of pace from our day-today grind.

It turned out to be pretty cute, too.

Happy Holidays everyone!

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Table of

I

6

Remember to Love thy Neighbor

9

Behold the Power of Compassion

14

18 22

Selma Students 'Caught Doing Good'

Gift Guide Holiday Guide

On the Cover Brentley Stott helps us ring in the holiday season.

Sassy & Cute to do a code BLUE!!!

Big & Tall We've got it all!!

Volume 8, Number 1

A Shandy Communications, LLC publication

Publisher Randy Capps

General Manager Shanna Capps

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All our Holiday Events in One Convenient Location [ December 2023 ] • 5

A gentle reminder

to love your neighbor

By Edward “Ned” Walsh

A

s I craft this, I am meditating and reflecting on my visit recently to the Islamic mosque in Smithfield. I was the only Christian present as my Muslim brothers and sisters entered into their sacred time of prayer to Allah (God), the very same deity in which all we Christians believe.

Many of those present had friends and family in Gaza or Palestine and all denounced the barbaric acts of Hamas. Hamas is no more representative of the Muslim faith than the white supremist movement would be representative of the Christian faith.

I first experienced the deep and ancient conflict that has existed for centuries between the Jews and Arabs while serving as a Baptist student summer missionary in Ajloun, Jordan. This was the site of a Baptist hospital and

a school of nursing where I taught English to the male students.

While serving in Ajloun, I traveled by auto from Jordan across Syria and the city of Damascus on to the city of Beirut, Lebanon, where I joined the annual gathering of all Southern Baptist missionaries appointed to the Middle Eastern nations.

Today, such a journey would be dangerous, if not impossible.

At the conclusion of my service in Ajloun, I traveled to Jerusalem, a city, in that period of history, was divided in half. The east side was controlled by the Jordanians and the west by the Israelis.

As I wanted to visit Israel and a family of an Arab college friend, I would have to receive permission from both the Israeli and Jordanian governments to pass through the only passageway between the two hostile nations, the Mandelbaum Gate. This proved to be an experience I will never forget. The tension

was thick in the air at this passage point between these two nations. Here military guards from Israel and Jordan faced each other with loaded weapons.

Once safely in Israel, I made my way by public transportation to Tel Aviv and on to Nazareth where the family of my friend lived.

After several hours of travel via bus and an inability to read either Hebrew or Arabic road signs, I came to the realization that I had gone well beyond Nazareth.

I requested the bus driver stop and he confirmed my fear.

The driver instructed me to take my luggage beside the road and wait for another bus which would be coming later.

“Later?” What did that mean?

Sure enough, in about 30 minutes, an old rickety bus lumbered up and stopped. The driver got out and spoke some English. He asked where I was going, so I showed him the name and address I had taped on the top of my camera case.

His eyes widened and a big

smile grew on his face. You see, he was the father of my friend. God provided a friend and a “neighbor” thousands of miles from my home.

Miracles do happen!

Today, here in Johnston County, we host a multitude of Muslim brothers and sisters, fellow human beings, seeking refuge, seeking love and compassion and seeking good neighbors.

How often do the evangelical congregations of our area hear the words of Jesus proclaimed as given in Matthew 25:35, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.”

Remember the poor fellow in the New Testament story who fell among thieves and was wounded and left in a ditch to die. The religious elite could not be bothered with such a man while the lowly Samaritan, the lowest of society, was the one who showed God’s love and compassion.

Jesus put no boundaries or eliminated no race, no religion or lifestyle from such grace and compassion. If we call ourselves followers of this Jesus, neither should we.

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JROTC passes muster S

MITHFIELD — Smithfield-Selma High School Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (SSS NJROTC) successfully completed its annual Area Manager's Inspection recently with Lieutenant Commander James Landis, USN-Ret., Area Five Manager. Sixty-three cadets were graded at the unit personnel inspection which measured their basic knowledge of the program, grooming standards and uniform appearance.

The unit was also evaluated on their drill and color guard performance, as

6 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

well as program management with the Operations, Administration, Supply and Communications Departments.

NJROTC also offers many exciting extra-curricular activities that include marksmanship, academic, athletic, drill, STEM and orienteering competitions throughout the region. There are 30 high schools with NJROTC in the Area Five region that have eight schools in North Carolina and the remaining twenty-two in the Norfolk and rural Virginia areas.

▸ Drill Team Commander, Cadet Lieutenant Commander

Juan Lorenzo.

First row: Joel Brown, Iveth Jimenez, Zuriah Winters, Jennifer Valencia and Tiffany Stitt.

Second row: Juliana Chavez, Ashley Hernandez, Michael Buchanan and Ana Cano.

Third row: Kevin Franco, Aidan Wardle, Emidio Fonseca and Matthew Quintano.

[ December 2023 ] • 7

Infection prevention nurse named

Ambassador of Month S

MITHFIELD — UNC Health Johnston has recognized Jessica Toole of Smithfield, an infection prevention nurse, as Ambassador of the Month.

During a recent presentation, CEO Tom Williams said Toole works diligently to put into place new processes to prevent infection. “While she’s best known for promoting hand hygiene, she is also laserfocused on reducing hospital acquired C-diff,” he said. “She shares feedback with leaders and teammates and is quick to take action when she learns about a problem.”

Toole joined Johnston 17 years ago after graduating from East Carolina University.

She worked for many years on the nursing floors and in employee health before moving to the quality

department in 2019 prior to the pandemic.

In addition to putting into place safety protocols, her team also administered COVID vaccines to staff and

monoclonal antibody infusions and injections at UNC Health urgent care facilities at Clayton and Flowers.

“Being a nurse is about juggling different things, figuring out along the way what’s best for staff, employees and patients,” she said. “Our quality team is able to make it all work.”

▸ At center, CEO Tom Williams congratulates Jessica Toole on being named UNC Health Johnston’s Ambassador of the Month. At far left and right are: Dr. Rodney McCaskill, chief medical officer; and Cynthia Holloman-Matthews, director of quality. In addition to a parking sign and designated parking spot, Toole will receive eight hours of paid time off.

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In addition to working on processes, Toole enjoys learning about new procedures and technology. And she still visits with patients in the hospital.

“Every day is different,” she said. “And with change, there’s always new opportunities.”

Toole, who grew up in Clayton, says the hospital feels like home. She was born at Johnston and both her daughters, Hailey, 13, and Lila, 10, were delivered there too.

Away from work, she enjoys trying new restaurants and visiting new places with her girls.

Through the ambassador program, Johnston recognizes teammates who go above and beyond the call of duty. They deliver quality care, foster teamwork, and offer excellent service.

In addition to a designated month-long parking space, Toole will receive eight hours of paid time off.

A Matter of Principle: Behold the Power of

Compassion

By QAROL PRICE

“T

rue compassion means not only feeling another’s pain but also being moved to help relieve it,” said Daniel Goleman.

As the glow of gratitude lingers after Thanksgiving’s solemn reflections and festive feasts, the winter holiday season is only just getting started! There is still lots of celebrating and merry making ahead, right?

Well, not necessarily if Christmastime fills you with a sense of dread.

There’s the financial stress, commercialization, family tensions, loneliness, holiday crowds, traffic and other pressures that account for the

dull spirits that set in during the holidays.

On the other hand, others are able to honor their religious or cultural practices, revel in the traditional festivities while cheerfully dispensing acts of kindness and charity this time of year.

What accounts for the difference?

I will pull a “Captain Obvious” here by stating that the two opposing experiences have a lot to do with emotions.

But what is not so obvious is how much control we have over them.

Whether you are happy or bothered by anything, it is related to your beliefs or attitudes about it. Fearful and anxious feelings come

from menacing expectations, while feelings of love come from the belief that someone or something is lovable. Who really wants to fulfill their expectations to feel miserable every holiday season?

Wouldn’t it be a valuable gift if one were to receive the insight to relieve their own suffering or find meaning in it?

That gift is the message of Christmas.

One reason Christians revere the birth of Jesus is because he embodied the spirit of love and selflessness which emphasizes the idea of compassion and giving. Compassion, of course, is an emotion. But it is one that may be learned with great difficulty if one’s own suffering hinders their ability to notice the suffering of others.

It is certainly well worth learning not only because it helps others, but just as well because it enriches ourselves – immeasurably.

Better than continuing my pedantic explanations, I point to the superior exposition we find in Charles Dickens and his novella, “A Christmas Carol,” published in 1843, that had a profound impact on shaping the modern understanding of Christmas as a holiday of compassion and goodwill.

The story (spoiler alert) of Ebenezer Scrooge’s

transformation from a miserly, selfish individual to a generous and compassionate one after being visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come emphasized the importance of caring for others and the idea that it’s never too late to change. Dickens’ work struck a chord with readers and with its strong emphasis on charity, family and giving to those in need.

This synopsis does little justice to the brilliant way in which Scrooge gains compassion.

As readers we get a chance to walk in Scrooge’s shoes and learn how he became the hardened miser we first meet.

By doing so, we unexpectedly develop compassion for his character!

How wonderful that stories can help shape our hearts toward a more loving place. And how wonderful that holidays continue to affirm that which swells our hearts. ⋆ Next time: Dependability 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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[ December 2023 ] • 9

Smithfield-Selma High hosts

Topping Out Ceremony S

▸ Smithfield-Selma High celebrated the nearly completed auxiliary gym with a Topping

Out Ceremony where attendees were offered the chance to sign one of the beams.

MITHFIELD — Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) held a Topping Out Ceremony at Smithfield-Selma High recently.

The Topping Out Ceremony was a celebration of the nearly completed auxiliary gym at Smithfield-Selma High. The gym is the final project of the 2018 Bond Referendum.

In addition, the auxiliary gym will include a locker room, weight room and restrooms for use by students, staff and the public. Students and staff will have the additional space for educational purposes and extracurricular activities.

JCPS Superintendent Dr. Eric C. Bracy offered words of appreciation during the event and stated, “This new addition is very significant to our students and staff. It not only provides the needed space for academic

and athletic advancement, but it also provides tangible evidence of community support, care and interest in education that our students can actually see and touch,” he said.

Board of Education members were joined by many who partnered in the project, including county commissioners, school administrators, students and the general public. “We are thankful for the many partners who have made this long awaited vision a reality,” Bracy said.

After a brief presentation, attendees were given an opportunity to sign the 30foot long steel beam that will be placed above the entrance of the completed gym. Previously, the Smithfield-Selma High Class of 2024 signed the beam, cementing their names in history, and immediately prior to the event, staff members were able to sign the beam as well.

The auxiliary gym is scheduled to be completed by July 2024.

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

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Take inventory and regularly check any alcohol in the home.

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

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.

[ December 2023 ] • 11

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[ December 2023 ] • 13

Pine Level Elementary hosts 10th annual

Santa shops small in Downtown Smithfield!

Red Ribbon Week Parade Submitted by Johnston County Public Schools

P

INE LEVEL — Pine Level Elementary wrapped up Red Ribbon Week with its 10th annual parade recently.

Students and staff were joined by members of the PTA, community members, local officials, members of the Johnston County Sheriff’s Department and Pine Level police and fire departments.

The North Johnston High Band was also there to lead the parade.

The parade is the grand finale of a week filled with

different themes for each day, such as “Favorite Sports Team Day” and “School Spirit Day.” The students could barely contain their excitement as they marched around the school, showing off the posters and small floats they created.

The Pine Level Elementary Red Ribbon Week Parade debuted in 2013, and since then, it has become a feature event, not just for the school, but for the entire community.

In 2022, Mayor Jeff Holt mandated the parade to be an annual event.

Red Ribbon Week is the largest and longest-running

▸ Students, teachers, administrators and the community of Pine Level came out in a

show of force for the 10th annual Red Ribbon Week Parade.

drug prevention campaign in the United States. The first National Red Ribbon Celebration was launched in 1988, and continues to serve

Selma Elementary School students get “caught doing good” Submitted by Town of Selma

S

ELMA — The Selma Police Department, under the leadership of newly appointed Chief Jamie Hughes, has embarked on several new initiatives within the community. School Resource Officer C. Williford has developed a new program specifically for the students at Selma Elementary School. This new program recognizes students from each

14 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

homeroom as Selma Police Department Cadets who are “Caught Doing Good” each month.

Homeroom teachers are working with Officer Williford to choose the new cadets each month. The first ceremony was held recently in the auditorium. Williford, Hughes and Captains Josh Layhew and Jeffrey Bass joined school administrators to present the students with their awards and badges. Students were chosen based

as a motivation to mobilize communities to educate youth about drugs and encourage participation in drug-free activities.

on behavior, hard work, helping others and all-around character.

Each student was awarded a badge sticker and a certificate noting exemplary conduct and outstanding work ethic. They were also given a task with some additional work. Williford and the Selma Police Department want to ensure cadets that are “caught doing good” help to show others it is good to get “caught” too. Each cadet was asked to answer the following questions:  What can I do to make myself better?  How can I help my friends and classmates to be better and succeed?  How can I make a positive impact at Selma Elementary and in my community?

The purpose of this monthly initiative is to bring awareness to being a good person, following the rules and being a positive role model. The hope is that all students will become recognized as Selma Police Department Cadets for being “caught doing good” this year and to see the positive impact it has at school, at home and within the community.

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Johnston Community College Announces

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BioWork Training

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Submitted by Johnston Community College

S

MITHFIELD — Johnston Community College and Johnston County Public Schools, with support from Novo Nordisk and Grifols, are teaming up to offer the BioWork certification curriculum in all of Johnston County’s traditional public high schools.

BioWork is a statewide certification program that teaches the fundamentals of working as a process technician in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical or chemical manufacturing facilities.

Johnston County high school juniors and seniors will be able to complete the free course in one semester, as part of a pre-apprenticeship, through the Career and College Promise program.

“This program will help propel many Johnston County students into success while in school and afterwards as they begin their journey into high-demand biopharmaceutical career pathways that are available in our community,” said Johnston County Public Schools

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Superintendent Dr. Eric Bracy.

“We are extremely thankful for our community partners who have collaborated to provide this innovative opportunity for our students.”

“We are proud to partner with the Johnston County Public School System to provide this unique and valuable workforce training at their schools.

Completing this certificate will set students up for success in a biotechnology career,” said JCC President Dr. Vern Lindquist.

Reno Palombit, the director of career and technical education for JCPS, agrees.

“This partnership is another step in our mission that every Johnston County Public Schools graduate has a plan for their future and the skills, knowledge, and aptitudes to make it a reality," he said.

The BioWork certification will count as one year of work experience in a biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility, if the

For more information on the program, visit: www.johnstoncc.edu/programs/ career-and-college-promise/ wcePathways.aspx.

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student is hired after graduating high school. Novo Nordisk and Grifols, Johnston County’s largest biopharmaceutical manufacturing companies, support the new program.

“Programs like BioWork are not only preparing students for the future, but also offering the promise of rewarding careers in the biomanufacturing industry,” according to Shaylah Nunn-Jones, the principal for government and public affairs at Novo Nordisk.

Blaire Narron, the senior manager for performance development at Grifols, said “Grifols is proud to support BioWork in Johnston County Public Schools, a potential game changer for many students and their families.”

Completion of the certificate allows students to enroll at JCC with the equivalent of two curriculum classes toward an associate degree in Biotechnology.

Johnston County high school graduates are also eligible to pursue an associate degree tuition-free at JCC for up to four academic semesters through the JoCo Commissioners Program.

BioWork classes in Johnston County’s traditional public high schools begin this spring.

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[ December 2023 ] • 17

'Tis the season for gift giving and merriment Buying the perfect gift can be tricky, but we’ve found a few local gems to help you cross folks off that Christmas list.

Daddy Jack’s Coffee The Oak City Collection offers up Daddy Jack's "A Taste of New Orleans" coffee.

This is a New Orleans style of coffee. But, what makes it unique is the fact that the beans are sourced and ground locally and then blended with chicory directly from New Orleans. That makes it “absolutely the freshest chicory blend you will get anywhere.”

Super 7 TMNT Deluxe Action Figures These collectible action figures are a beefy seven-inch scale designed by the Four Horsemen for Super 7. We have all four heroes in a half shell: Leo, Raph, Donny and Mikey as well as some of their friends and foes. Come check them out at Hidden Temple Toys.

Cost: $55

Receive 10 percent off with this ad at Hidden Temple Toys.

Cost: $12.50

Samuel B. Birthstone Collection The Samuel B. Birthstone Collection is full of stunning pieces that feature genuine birthstones. This collection includes a variety of different jewelry pieces, such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings, all of which are handcrafted in Bali by skilled artisans. Whether you're looking for a gift for someone special or simply want to treat yourself, the sterling silver birthstone collection is a great choice! Selma Jewelry is chock full of gift items starting at just $5, making it easy for customers with any budget!

Cost: $84

(Prices vary based on stone) Contact: Selma Jewelry is located on N. Raiford Street in Selma.

They can be reached at 919-965-8582.

18 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Special: BRING OUR AD in this edition to the shop anytime before Christmas, and receive a 30 percent discount on any 10-ounce bag of Daddy Jack's coffee or a smaller sample bag for only $3 for a great stocking stuffer.

Sterling Silver Chain An Italian Sterling Silver Snake Style Chain could make for the perfect stocking stuffer this holiday season.

Cost: $39.99

Contact: Lee Jewelry Outlet is located at the Carolina Premium Outlets, near Columbia and Nautica and next to From The Ashes. Or, call 919-300-1064.

Peanuts SuperSize Vinyl Figure Snoopy, everyone’s favorite World War I Flying Ace, is here to protect your collection from the scourge of the Red Baron! This impressive 12-inch Peanuts Supersize Vinyl poseable Snoopy is ready for action with a scarf and aviator cap, as well as vintage-style aviator goggles, and is ready to fly home with you from Hidden Temple Toys in Selma!

Coffee on Raiford Gift Certificate Give the gift of a nice cup of hot chocolate, an invigorating Chai latte or, of course, coffee with a gift card from Coffee on Raiford. It’s a great place to get a treat, catch up with friends and just slow down the hustle and bustle of the holiday season for just a bit.

Cost: $20

Contact: Coffee on Raiford is located on S. Raiford Street in Selma. They can be reached at 919-795-1568.

Luxurious Personalized Soaps The Oak City Collection also has Cost: $4 luxurious personalized soaps. These Special: Standard wrappers are $2.75 are three-ounce bars of tripleper bar. The $4 price is for custom milled, natural soap enriched with orders and there is a minimum of 12 shea butter, creamy cocoa butter bars for the order. However, if you and virgin olive oil and slightly show us our printed ad in this issue, we scented with a Southern Magnolia or will discount custom orders through Pomegranate. They’re American made Dec. 20, by 25 percent ($3 per bar instead of $4, with the 12-bar minimum. and hand wrapped. Personalized Contact: Visit The Oak City Collection wrappers are available to suit on South 3rd Street in Smithfield, or just about any occasion (births, call 919-810-7472. promotions.

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Contact: Hidden Temple Toys is located on S. Raiford Street in Selma. You can reach them at info@hiddentempletoys.com or 919-320-7628. [ December 2023 ] • 19

In a digital-driven world of tragedy, human connections matter most I don't know if you watched “Friends,” but for my age group it was a staple of our weekly TV lineup. The iconic group of friends — living in the same building, drinking coffee together, sharing life together. Wow isn’t that what we all long for, Human connection?

Do you Hear what I Hear?

I, like many of you and many across the country, was deeply saddened to hear of Matthew Perry's passing. I was making dinner when my husband hollered to me from the couch, "Matthew Perry died?” I shouted loudly, "NO!" And I think I dropped the spaghetti sauce spatula! Some of you may have had the same reaction.

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EVEN IF you have found a way to avoid the news cycle, you still hear about all the tragedies happening every day or every week in your community, state, country, and yes, even abroad. We literally cannot escape it. The minute-by-minute devastations across the globe are thrusted into our purview every single day. This person shot in Minnesota. That mass shooting in Maine. That carjacking in Knightdale. That 158-car pile up in Louisiana.

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Clayton Audiology offers comprehension diagnos c evalua ons for hearing, nnitus, and auditory processing concerns.

We work closely with our pa ents to provide a personalized treatment plan.

I agree, humanity was never supposed to know about every single tragedy happening minute by minute. And yet these nifty devices in our hands alert us to those daily. Wow. And we wonder why our neighbors, coworkers, family members and even ourselves — feel overly anxious, edgy and uncertain. ▸ Caption: From left, Sam (Sarah) Bullock and Sydney Mancini.

Prac cing Audiology since 1996

Family Owned & Operated

May we follow in His foosteps and spread His love to all!

Merry Christmas!

20 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Smithfield-Selma High students earn National Merit Scholarship recognition Submitted by SmithfieldSelma High School

SMITHFIELD — Crystal Gregory, Smithfield-Selma High School principal, announced recently that Sarah Bullock and Sydney Mancini have been named Commended Students in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.

A Letter of Commendation from the school and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), which conducts the program, will be presented by the principal to these scholastically talented seniors.

About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2024 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards,

Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2024 competition by taking the 2022 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

“Those being named Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success,” a NMSC release said. “These students represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation. We hope that this recognition will help broaden their educational opportunities and encourage them as they continue their pursuit of academic success.”

I think the only answer to managing all that angst is HUMAN connection.

Surely we have our differences: lived experience, religion, politics, the way we parent, how we love, etc. But we are all created the same. All created equal.

Which means a lot in how ALIKE we humans really are. I believe we must strive now more than possibly ever, to connect with other humans intentionally and with fierce love. Fierce Grace even. It's so easy for us to hole up in our small bubbles with OUR people and not engage with others who might appear different than us. That's easy. That's maybe comforting. But it's not truly connecting.

We have got to reach across the "table" and connect. I think it's the only way to surf this tide that feels like it's crushing humanity.

The "Friends" gathered daily to sip coffee, tell jokes and share life together.

Maybe we can replicate that somehow in our communities, but on a larger scale.

Connect. Fill up your cup. Fill up someone else's.

919-772-1990 (p) 919-772-1978 (f) GARNER • CLAYTON • CARY • RALEIGH • HOLLY SPRINGS • WILMINGTON [ December 2023 ] • 21

Things to see

their new 30-minute Christmas escape room experience.

Meadow Lights

Don’t miss “the original old-fashioned Christmas tradition and the largest and oldest Christmas attraction in Eastern North Carolina!”

Visit the candy store, ride the train and visit with Saint Nick himself. For more information, visit www.meadowlights.com.

Lights on the Neuse

→ Boyette Family Farm, 1620 Loop Road, Clayton

Celebrate the holiday with an old-fashioned hayride at Lights on the Neuse this season. The hayride whisks you and your loved ones away to a transformed world of Christmas spirit. It’s open every Friday and Saturday night through Christmas Eve, and other select nights as well.

For the complete schedule, visit www.lightsontheneuse. com/schedule.

Dawn Avenue Lights

Stop by Dawn Avenue after Dec. 7 for a unique light show that’s more than worth the short drive to Four Oaks. Open from 7-10 p.m. nightly from Dec. 7 through Jan. 7.

Ready Set Escape

→ 1304-D Market Street, Smithfield

Check out “Santa’s Cabin,”

22 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

sponsor, Danielle Reichard, Realtor, Christy Mangum Team on Facebook for more details, including the map of the homes entered in the contest.

Things to know Carriage Rides Christmas Jubilee

⋆ Rudy Theatre, Selma

Capture the magic of the holiday season with the Christmas Jubilee at the Rudy Theatre. There are plenty of chances to catch the show, and you can visit www.rudytheatre. com/schedules to see all of the available dates.

Santa’s Workshop

Visit Santa in his Downtown Smithfield workshop located at Town Hall Park to make sure you're on the nice list!

A big thank you to Leonard Buildings & Truck Accessories for providing Santa's Workshop! Dates are: Friday, Dec. 8, 4-8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to noon; Thursday, Dec. 14, 4-6 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 15, 4-8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m. to noon; Thursday, Dec. 21, 4-6 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 22, 4-8 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 23, 10 a.m. to noon.

For more information, www.smithfieldchristmas.com.

Clayton Celebration of Lights 2023

Join in on a Christmas Light decorating contest. It’s free to enter for Clayton residents, and there are prizes available.

Visit bit.ly/ClaytonLights2023 to sign up. Follow the event

Downtown Smithfield is especially magical in December, when the storefronts are beautifully decorated for Christmas and the Town decks the halls for the season! The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation hosts Christmas Carriage Rides to give people a chance to enjoy the twinkling lights around downtown! Free carriage rides are available from 5-8 p.m. on December 1, 8, 15 and 22. Reservations are required. Visit www. downtownsmithfield.com/ events/414-christmascarriage-rides to learn more.

Live Nativity

⋆ Sonlight Farms → Bunn Road, Kenly

Local churches are combining to share the experience of the true meaning of Christmas.

Check it out Dec. 1-3, from 5-8 p.m. Visit www. sonlightfarmsnc.com.

JWL's Letters from Santa

Santa Claus has given his elves at JWL a very special assignment: to help him spread holiday cheer to your loved ones, both the young and the young-at-heart. For each $5 donation, they will send a joy-filled personalized letter on Santa’s newest stationary to children, grandchildren, pets or any loved one using

→ Town of Wilson's Mills, Railroad Street

the information you provide.

Remember, Santa and his elves are extremely busy preparing for their Christmas Eve journey and need plenty of time to prepare these very important letters. Be sure to add your special letter recipient to Santa’s mailing list before the deadline — December 4 at 11:59 p.m. Santa’s helpers will send letters from the North Pole to cities across the USA by December 11. Proceeds will be used to purchase warm winter coats for children benefiting from the services of My Kids Club and Partnership for Children of Johnston County.

Come out to Wilson's Mills Tinsel Tree Lane Christmas event on Friday, Dec. 1.

The event showcases local dance and choral groups throughout the night, features a countdown to the Tinsel Tree Lane Christmas tree lighting at 6 p.m. and offers vendors selling Christmas gifts, crafts and decor. There will be food trucks on site and a special visit from Santa! This event is free to the public. For more, visit www.facebook.com/ events/1626362121219996.

Friday, Dec. 1, 5 p.m.

⋆ Benson’s Christmas On Main → Downtown Benson An evening full of fun for the entire family. Shopping, tree lighting, entertainment, a parade, music show in the grove and visits with Santa. To learn more, visit www.bensonchamber.com/events/details/ christmas-on-main-1109.

Friday, Dec. 1, 6 p.m.

⋆ Town of Pine Level Christmas Tree Lighting → Sam Godwin Park

Things to do Friday, Dec. 1, 9 a.m.

⋆ UNC Health Johnston Festival of Trees → Johnston Medical Mall, Brightleaf Blvd., Smithfield

The Festival of Trees returns to the Johnston Medical Mall this December. They’re decking the mall to benefit the Johnston Health Foundation and invite you to take a festive stroll through the beautifully decorated trees. Admission is free. For more details, visit www.facebook.com/ events/1750437705418316.

Friday, Dec. 1, 5 p.m.

⋆ Tinsel Tree Lane Kickoff Event

Photos courtesy of Johnston County Visitors Bureau

Holiday Guide

hours and renting skates will be added to their website soon.

More details are available at www.facebook.com/ events/255344607315353.

Don’t miss the Town of Pine Level’s annual tree lighting.

For more information, call 919-965-2284.

Friday, Dec. 1, 6 p.m.

⋆ Christmas Tree Lighting → Neuse Country Club, Birkdale Drive, Clayton

Come out and kick off the holiday season at The Neuse with their Christmas Tree Lighting, accompanied by Victorian Carolers in costume!

The Neuse is proud to present its new outdoor ice skating rink, which will remain open for the entire month of December. More details on

Saturday, Dec. 2, 8 a.m.

⋆ Pajamas and Pancakes with Santa → Kenly Fire Department, W. 1st Street, Kenly

Enjoy breakfast with a special guest on Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Kenly Fire Department.

Children can come dressed in their favorite Christmas pajamas, and breakfast for parents will be available for purchase. For more information, contact the Kenly Chamber of Commerce at 919284-5510.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 8 a.m.

⋆ 7th Annual - West Johnston High School FFA Alumni Whobilation Vendor Show → West Johnston High, Raleigh Road, Benson

kids, adults, dogs and duos or families. Strollers and dogs are welcome to come and enjoy the fun. The registration fee is a new unwrapped toy, and all the toys go to the children at Harbor (domestic violence relief) and to the Department of Social Services. For more, visit www. smithfieldchristmas.com.

Bring the family and come out for the Annual Four Oaks Christmas Parade down Main Street. Food trucks will be on hand as well.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. ⋆ Santa's Workshop → Cleveland Elementary School, Cleveland Road, Clayton

Who is ready for Christmas?

Come out on December 2 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. to get lots of your Christmas shopping done. Help support our local vendors this holiday season by shopping small! Learn more at www.facebook.com/ events/276896608606410.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.

Here’s another chance to knock out a bit of Christmas shopping. More details are available at www.facebook. com/events/688687039754240.

The run starts at Bulldog Harley Davidson, second stop at Aversboro Restaurant and Sports Bar and ends at Plan B for food, 50/50 Raffle and music. Toy bins are located at Bulldog Harley Davidson, Plan B Bar, Aversboro Restaurant, TNT Fitness, JoCo Brewing and The Fainting Goat. There will be a special guest for the kids and the chance for pictures with the Grinch and CindyLou at all three stops.

All toys and proceeds will go directly to families in

Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.

⋆ Stink, Stank, Stunk 5K Run and Jingle Bell Jog → Smithfield Community Park, M. Durwood Stephenson Pkwy., Smithfield

The Grinch Run is on Dec. 2 at 10 a.m., and there is also a 5K or a one-mile jog/walk. There is a best costume contest for

Saturday, Dec. 2, 11 a.m.

⋆ Four Oaks Christmas Parade

Come out for a huge Santa’s Workshop event! Santa himself will be there for pictures, and kids will have the chance to snag some adorable gifts for the family, tons of holiday crafts, bounce houses, local school band, fire trucks, games and more than 50 vendors and delicious food trucks! Tickets sold at the door. Contact clevelandelementarypta21@ gmail.com for more information.

⋆ Fifth Annual Christmas Craft Fair → Pace Family Farms, Buffalo Road, Clayton

need for Christmas! Learn more at www.facebook.com/ events/6290934841028297.

⋆ Help Thy Neighbor JOCO Toy Run → Bulldog Harley Davidson, Outlet Center Drive, Smithfield

Saturday, Dec. 2, 1 p.m. ⋆ Town of Princeton's Christmas Parade

Princeton holds its annual Christmas parade on the first Saturday of December. Don’t miss the holiday fun.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 3 p.m. ⋆ 17th Annual Flowers Plantation Christmas Tree Lighting

All are welcome to come join Flowers Plantation and kick off the Christmas Season with its 17th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting! There will be crafts for kids and pictures with Santa located at the Dr. Watson Inn Outdoor Pavilion.

The Christmas Tree lighting ceremony begins at the Flowers Parkway roundabout center! In the event of rain, the event will be moved to the following day.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 3 p.m. ⋆ Archer Lodge Christmas Celebration

This is a fun filled afternoon that begins with an exciting parade and followed by many fun activities at the Archer Lodge Community Center.

[ December 2023 ] • 23

Sunday, Dec. 3, 2 p.m.

⋆ Whoville Holiday Happening → Old North State Food Hall, Selma Children get to talk to and take pictures with Santa, make reindeer food, go sledding and have some delicious cookies and hot chocolate.

Dec. 2, 3 p.m.; Dec. 9, noon and Dec. 16, noon ⋆ Visit with Santa → Old North State Food Hall, Selma

Santa visits Old North State Food Hall on three Saturday afternoons in December. It’s the perfect photo opportunity and your chance to share your wish list with the jolly old elf.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m.

⋆ Karaoke Ugly Sweater Party → Old North State Food Hall, Selma

Blitzen’s Tavern and Old North State Food Hall will host a Karaoke Ugly Sweater Party, led by DJ David Charles Price on Dec. 2. There is a $7 cover/ bar minimum.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 8 p.m. ⋆ The Second City: What the Elf?

Celebrate the season with The Second City's The Clayton Center holiday production, What the Elf? The Second City comedy troupe has been entertaining audiences for more than six decades and has served as a launching pad for comedians like Tina Fey, Bill Murray and Mike Myers, to name just a few. Don't miss this humorous and irreverent take on the traditional Christmas tale. (Suggested for audiences 17+). For more, visit www.theclaytoncenter.com/ calendar.aspx?EID=1208.

24 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Check out the Whoville Holiday Happening, a Grinchthemed event for children ages 5 and up. $10 per child includes crafts, activities and a special Grinch dessert from The Ice Storm.

Monday, Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m.

⋆ Celtic Angels Christmas → Paul A. Johnston Auditorium, Johnston Community College Celtic Angels Christmas captivates audiences of all ages with the magic of the season.

Celtic Angels Christmas is a joyous celebration from start to finish, encompassing vocal and instrumental Holiday and Irish favorites. Paired with show stopping world class champion Irish dancing and a fully live band, Celtic Angels Christmas is sure to awe and entertain. For more, visit www. johnstonccperformingarts. csstix.com/event-details.php?.

Tuesday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m.

⋆ Town of Selma Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade

The Selma Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting is the perfect way to begin the holiday season and create a fun tradition with family and friends. Watch as the parade makes its way down Raiford Street through the heart of Selma. See parade entries all lit up with twinkling lights and of course, watch for that most important visitor of all — Santa Claus!

Tuesday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m.

⋆ Christmas in Cleveland → Cleveland Fire Department, Cleveland Road, Clayton Don’t miss Christmas in Cleveland on December 5 for the annual Christmas Parade, food truck rodeo and, of course, Santa!

Wednesday, Dec. 6, 7 p.m. ⋆ Eddie Miles in concert → Rudy Theatre, Selma

Eddie Miles will be performing songs from Elvis's No. 1 Christmas Album, which featured 12 songs and held the top spot on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart for four weeks. It has since gone three times platinum.

Presley's "Elvis' Christmas Album" remains the topselling Christmas album of all time. For more, visit ci.ovationtix.com/35938/ production/1170507.

Thursday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m. ⋆ Shopping Spree → The Clayton Center

Clayton Women in Networking presents an opportunity to cross some folks off your Christmas list while supporting area women entrepreneurs. Visit conta. cc/49yHsiv to learn more.

Thursday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m. ⋆ Kenly Christmas Parade

Don’t miss Kenly’s annual Christmas parade. The entry form is available at townofkenly.wufoo.com/forms/ m7rwylu1gomgvx/.

Thursday, Dec. 7, 6 p.m. ⋆ Town of Smithfield Christmas Tree Lighting

Welcome the Holiday season with a Christmas Tree Lighting in Downtown Smithfield.

Third Street transforms (from the Howell Theatre to Jewel's Formals) into "Candy Cane Lane." Festivities will include sweet treat food trucks, music, games, face painting and more.

At 7, they'll light the town's Christmas Tree and a special guest from the North Pole will appear. It's the kickoff of Christmas in Smithfield and

featuring Craig Woolard → Rudy Theatre, Selma

it's a fun family event you don't want to miss!

$20 food and beverage gift card and a bingo card.

Thursday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 9, noon

⋆ 94.7 QDR Acoustic Christmas for the Kids → The Clayton Center Singer and songwriter Randy Houser — who has been a fixture on the country music charts since 2008 — will headline the benefit concert, while being joined by Florida Georgia Line’s Brian Kelley and rising solo artist Morgan Evans. Reserved seating for 94.7 QDR’s Acoustic Christmas Concert will be priced $50 each and VIP tickets – which will offer a pre-show artist meet-and-greet event, heavy hors d’oeuvres, non-alcoholic beverages and a cash bar — will be priced at $100 each.

One hundred percent of ticket sale revenue generated from the event will be donated to UNC Children’s Hospital.

For more details, visit www. theclaytoncenter.com/ calendar.aspx?EID=1250.

Friday, Dec. 8, 6 p.m.

⋆ Holiday Movie and Mingle Night → Old North State Food Hall, Selma

Don’t miss Holiday Movie & Mingle Night, featuring best-selling author Nancy Naigle, who will share her behind-the-scenes tales from Hallmark movie sets, along with a lively holiday movie bingo game with prizes. The $30 fee per ticket includes a

⋆ Christkindl Market → Old North State Food Hall, Selma

Check out the Christkindl Market, hosted by Small Batch Craft Market, featuring hand-made gift items from local artisans and creators in an outdoor setting and entertainment inside the Food Hall.

Saturday, Dec. 9, 3 p.m.

⋆ Town of Clayton Christmas Parade Clayton will hold its annual Christmas parade on Saturday, Dec. 9 at 3 p.m.

For more details, visit www. claytonchristmasparade.org.

Saturday, Dec. 9, 4 p.m. ⋆ Micro Christmas Parade

Micro will hold its annual Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec. 9 from 4-6 p.m. Join in as they celebrate their “Small Town with a Big Heart.” For more information, call the town office at 919-284-2572 or visit townofmicro.com.

Sunday, Dec. 10, 3 p.m.

⋆ Pine Level Christmas Parade The Town of Pine Level holds its Christmas parade annually on the second Sunday in December.

Dec. 10, 6 p.m. and Dec. 17, 10:45 a.m. ⋆ Bizzell Grove Pentecostal Holiness Church Cantata → Bizzell Grove Church Rd., Princeton

The annual Christmas cantatas will be held Sunday, Dec. 10, at 6 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 17 during the 10:45 a.m. service.

Wednesday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m.

⋆ The Embers Christmas Show,

Don’t miss the Embers Christmas Show, featuring Craig Woolard. See Rudolf, Frosty and the magic of Christmas, live at the Rudy.

For more, visit ci.ovationtix. com/35938/production/11481 07?performanceId=11215188.

Thursday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m.

⋆ Christmas Trivia for a Cause → Old North State Food Hall, Selma Trivia teams compete at Blitzen’s to win a donation to their favorite not-for-profit during Christmas Trivia for a Cause. Registration is $10 per person.

Thursday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m. ⋆ Smithfield Christmas Parade

It’s time to jingle and mingle with your friends and family as you witness a dazzling display of floats, colorful performers and more at this year’s Smithfield Christmas Parade. Let the vibrant energy of the parade fill you with holiday cheer and joy.

Friday, Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m.

⋆ Clayton Piano Festival Holiday Gala → Twin Oaks Barn, Cornwallis Road, Clayton

Clayton Piano Festival’s annual Holiday Gala Concert is always a favorite with our audience. This year’s gala brings a diverse array of musical acts, including New York City based Impromptuo, an innovative improvisationfocused duo made up of violinist Katherine Kyu Hyeon Lim and pianist Joey Chang, internationally touring tenor, Tyrone Chambers, David Richards and the Swingsters Union Band combining the triangle’s most talented Jazz stars, multigenre vocalist, Angelique Alexander and CPF Artistic Director, Jonathan Levin.

Come celebrate the season!

Tickets are available at www. eventbrite.com/e/claytonpiano-festival-holiday-galatickets-715738472037.

Saturday, Dec. 16, 11 a.m. ⋆ Wreaths for Uncle → Selma Memorial Gardens, U.S. 301 and 70, Selma

Wreaths Across America volunteers are working hard across the nation to raise funding and awareness for the upcoming memorial event.

Evey Morgan, a 15-yearold high school junior, is the local event coordinator and location organizer for the annual event held in Selma in memory of her Uncle LtC. Michael Fields.

The “Wreaths for Uncle” ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, December 16.

To learn more, visit www. wreathsacrossamerica.org/ pages/173766/overview.

the Country Crooner. It’s a three hour show, so bring in the New Year live at the Rudy Theatre.

Sunday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m.

⋆ New Year's Eve on The Farm at 95 feat. Band Of Oz

Come ring in 2024 with Band of Oz on The Farm at 95!

Tickets include entry into the event, a free champagne toast at midnight, a FUN show from Band of Oz, light appetizers from Backyard Bistro, photo booth and access to the cash bar! This show is indoors!

Complete details and pricing are at www.facebook.com/ events/1805560913198573.

Sunday, Dec. 17, 10:45 a.m. ⋆ Christmas Cantata → Amelia Christian Church, Clayton

Check out a Christmas Cantata and give your holiday spirit a boost.

Tuesday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m.

⋆ Deep River Brewing Company, Main St., Clayton → Christmas Movie Trivia

Come out for a fun night of Christmas movie trivia.

Saturday, Dec. 23, 10 a.m. ⋆ The Polar Express → Howell Theatre, 3rd Street, Smithfield

Catch a free showing of “The Polar Express” at Howell Theatre to soak up a bit of last-minute Christmas spirit.

Sunday, Dec. 31, 9 p.m. ⋆ Happy New Year 2024 → Rudy Theatre, Selma

Check out a tribute to Elvis Presley and Patsy Cline, with Travis Powell from Myrtle Beach as Elvis and Diane Bailey as Patsy Cline. Dayle Eason will also perform as

Sunday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m.

⋆ New Year's Eve Celebration featuring The Copper PianoDueling Pianos → Hinnant Family Vineyards, Pine Level

Bring in the New Year with Hinnant Family Vineyards!

Join in the fun with The Copper Piano Dueling Pianos all night long. Dust off your cocktail attire and come bring in the New Year in style! If you've seen dueling pianos before, then you already know how much fun it will be! Imagine two pianos, your favorite song requests, a lot of singing, a ton of dancing and a bunch of laughter!

Complimentary refreshments (a charcuterie grazing table) and a glass of Champagne to toast in the New Year will be provided. Pricing and details are at www.facebook.com/ events/836096464311801.

[ December 2023 ] • 25

ROOFING THAT LASTS A LIFETIME!

• Roofing • Shingles • Siding • Gutters

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

919-894-9904

robco@robcoresidential.com

FREE ESTIMATES Apple Cider & Eggnog

Cooked Collards (thaw, cook & eat)

We Have Trees!!

LeesGardenCenterClayton.com 401 West Main St., Clayton

919-550-8425

Welcome

Open 7 days a week!

Mon. - Sat. 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sun. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

to the Realo Family

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

26 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Assorted Christmas Candies

Assorted Nuts

[ December 2023 ] • 27

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

28 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.

⋆ Setting up your Google Business Profile → JCC Small Business Center Webinar

Join JNOW’s Shanna Capps and learn how to set up, verify and manage your free Google Business Profile.

Whether your business is online or offline, it is important to make sure your customers can find you online and learn more information about your business. You will learn tips and best practices for setting up your profile and managing how your business appears on Google Search and Maps. For more, visit www.ncsbc.net/workshop. aspx?ekey=280430055.

Monday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m.

⋆ Your Small Business Taxes → JCC Small Business Center Webinar

Presenter Dennis Watts will help you gain a solid understanding of taxes required for small business owners and develop the best tax strategy for your business. You’ll also become familiar with the latest tax forms and procedures for both state and federal taxes. For more details, visit www.ncsbc.net/workshop. aspx?ekey=280430066.

Wednesday, Dec. 6, noon

⋆ MindSpark: Skills Assessment for Your Business → JCC Small Business Center Webinar

Join tenBiz Inc. and start with the positive and take time for yourself. Which traits do you possess that are positive and are seen as value-added parts of your character, personality, values and qualities? Let's start by looking at the daily, monthly, and yearly routines you use to recharge, encourage and strengthen yourself. Learn more at www.ncsbc.net/workshop. aspx?ekey=280430037.

Monday, Dec. 11, 6 p.m.

⋆ Grow With Google: Launch Your Business with Customer-Focused Marketing → JCC Small Business Center Webinar

Join Tierra Norwood with Grow With Google and find out how to create a compelling brand, define your audience, convert customers and build loyalty and advocacy.

Get more details at www. ncsbc.net/workshop. aspx?ekey=280430043.

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.

⋆ Cleveland School Rotary Club → Cleveland Draft House, Garner

Cleveland School Rotary Club meets bi-weekly and serves the citizens of the 40/42 area of Johnston County and Garner.

Every Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. ⋆ 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 play. For more information, contact the center at 919-553-4350.

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.

First and third Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m. ⋆ Smithfield Lions Club → Golden Corral, Smithfield

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 Karen Brown at 919-934-2555.

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 919-909-6422.

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.

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. ⋆ Kiwanis Club of Clayton → Virtual meeting

The Kiwanis Club of Clayton serves the community with emphasis on school youth 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.

Third Monday, 7 p.m.

⋆ Vietnam Veterans of America → Smithfield American Legion Post 132 [ December 2023 ] • 29

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

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

Call 919-965-3865 with any questions.

→ Smithfield DAV, Buffalo Road

Third Monday, 6:30 p.m.

Third Tuesday

Every Thursday, 6:45 a.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 widowed males and females to join them at their monthly self-pay dinner meeting.

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

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 954-696-7833.

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.

Fourth Monday, 6:30 p.m.

⋆ Disabled American Veterans meeting

Smithfield Chapter 44 of the Disabled American Veterans meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. ⋆ Clayton Rotary Morning Club → Virtual meeting via Zoom

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 meetings → JCC Workforce Development Center

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.

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

Fourth Thursday, 6 p.m.

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

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.

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

Hospice doesn’t mean giving up hope.

919.877.9959 heartlandhospice.com/Raleigh

30 • [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Your next chapter

Begins Now

Plan your path for spring semester.

Advising and Registration are open. Classes begin January 8th!

Learn more about attending JCC Tuition-Free!

www.johnstoncc.edu