December 2021

DECEMBER 2021

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CONTENTS

TABLE OF

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Holiday Gift Guide 14-18

8 28 38 52

The larger, and even more cheerful, holiday guide Meadow Lights to return this holiday season JCPS honors county veterans with annual celebration Calendar of events

ON THE COVER The Yellow House The Community Place in Downtown Clayton, decorated for the holidays.

Photo courtesy of Tracy Lynn Chmielecki.

[PUBLISHER] column

Hanging on to Christmas I’ve complained about this before, but magazine deadlines are particularly burdensome this time of year.

As I type this, it’s the middle of November. But this column effectively ends my work on the December issue, which of course, is all about the holidays. So, by extension, Christmas is practically over for me.

I’ve yet to eat any turkey, let alone open gifts, shop for any angel tree children or

YOUR JNOW

TEAM Volume 6, Number 1

A Shandy Communications, LLC publication

RANDY CAPPS

randy@johnstonnow.com

even wish someone a merry Christmas. I haven’t watched “Scrooged,” gone to Lights on the Neuse or eaten any

chocolate-covered pecans from the Meadow Lights candy store.

Scratch that last one. Mike brought me a bag back when we went down there for his story (page 28).

Usually, I let my Christmas spirit dwindle when the December issue goes to press.

I cast my mind ahead to future editions and just ride out the holidays.

Not this year. I resolve to be annoyingly cheerful. I’m going

to be like Frank Cross from “Scrooged.” I’m going to act a little nicer, smile a little easier and cheer a little more.

To be honest, I need that in my life this year. It’s been tough to be positive at times, and the Christmas season just makes me happier.

Hopefully, this issue will give you and your family a few ideas on how to boost your own Yuletide cheer.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

Thanks for reading.

Publisher Randy Capps

General Manager Shanna Capps

shanna@johnstonnow.com

Creative Consultant Ethan Capps

Marketing Representative

Marketing Representative

Office Manager

randy@johnstonnow.com

Wanda Sasser wanda@johnstonnow.com

Lauren Branch lauren@johnstonnow.com

Terri Atkinson terri@johnstonnow.com

Editor Mike Bollinger

mike@johnstonnow.com

Digital Marketing Manager

Amy Stanley amy@johnstonnow.com

919-980-5522 • www.johnstonnow.com • Facebook.com/JohnstonNow • 1300 W. Market Street, Smithfield, N.C. 27577 • hello@johnstonnow.com 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. ©2021 Johnston Now. All rights reserved.

ALL OUR HOLIDAY EVENTS IN ONE CONVENIENT LOCATION [ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 5

Lesson learned at DMV came with a price

By MIKE BOLLINGER

As part of my relocation to North Carolina, I recently made the required trips to the driver’s license office and license tag agency.

I was prepared for the worst, particularly since the first appointment I could get for a driver’s license was two months after I actually moved.

Having moved from Virginia to North Carolina before, I knew I would have to take the road sign recognition test in order to get a North Carolina license.

I’ve had a driver’s license since I was 16, which is … a long time. I’ve probably seen every road sign there is to see thousands of times.

However, one large part of my personality is that I tend to worry about things.

Sometimes a lot. meant I didn’t So, despite my have to take the familiarity with sign test. So, every road sign I had stressed, there is, I began overthought and to study them and studied those did so for two signs for nothing.

MIKE BOLLINGER days in advance of While stressing mike@johnstonnow.com my appointment. unnecessarily I went into is far from the driver’s license office something new to me, I had reasonably sure I could to laugh that I had done it yet identify the signs. again.

I happened to tell the lady Now that I had my hot who was helping me I had off the press North Carolina gotten a North Carolina temporary driving certificate, license in August 2016 when I headed to the license plate I moved to Elizabeth City to agency to get tags for my cars. work at the paper there. She There was a bit of a line, but looked me up in the N.C. nothing out of the ordinary system, and my license was for a DMV agency. still in there.

When it was my turn, I She said she could issue me started pulling out all the a duplicate that would still information the DMV be good for three years. Since website told me I should my license was still valid, that bring from a file folder. (Yes, I had all the information organized in a file folder.

Yes, I overstress, overthink and overprepare. Please don’t judge me.)

At this point, I learned that no matter how long it takes, NCDMV will find you. When I left Elizabeth City and went back to Virginia, once I had gotten insurance in Virginia I canceled my North Carolina policy. That same day, I mailed my N.C. tag back in order to get my refund, since where I moved in Virginia was more than four hours away from the nearest town in North

Carolina.

When the lady at the tag agency was looking at my information on her screen, she noted I had titled that car in North Carolina before. I said I had, in fact I bought it in Elizabeth City. She then said, “You’re going to have to pay a $50 civil penalty before I can title it and issue you a tag.”

I asked what for, and she explained that I was being fined for not having insurance on an active tag. Apparently, a tag is active in North Carolina until DMV receives it.

Thus, because I canceled the insurance before they received the tag, I had to pay. Lesson learned. The hard way.

I guess it could have been worse. A friend in Virginia who works at an insurance agency told me had I done the same thing there, the fine would have been $500 and I would have had to pay for signed risk insurance for three years to keep my license.

That is not a surprise, because while I love my home state, Virginia likes to regulate everything it can as much as it can.

Despite paying the extra $50, my overall experience was quite good. Everyone I encountered was pleasant and ready to help me get my business done.

Once again, I had stressed out for nothing. Some things, I suppose, will never change.

CORRECTIONS In the November edition, we incorrectly identified the contributor of three recipes — the marinated beef tenderloin, coconut cake and deviled eggs. These recipes were sent in by Elizabeth Anne Temple. In addition, in the Big Boy’s 30th anniversary story, we incorrectly identified Wendi Powell. We regret the errors.

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The larger, and even more cheerful, holiday guide T hankfully, things have returned to something closer to normal, and more events are being planned for the 2021 holiday season.

Thus, the holiday guide is back to being more packed with

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, Saturday and Sunday night through Christmas Eve, and every night from Dec. 17-24 as well. For the complete schedule, visit www.lightsontheneuse.com/schedule.

Dawn Avenue Lights

Dawn Avenue, Four Oaks Featured in previous Christmas guides, this imaginative display features a “mega tree,” singing Santa Claus, hundreds of lights and even broadcasts music over your car stereo in sync with the show.

Christmas Jubilee

Live@The Rudy Theatre, Selma Back in 2021 is the Rudy Theatre’s annual Christmas Jubilee. The event features an

activities for the family to enjoy than last year. There are chances for you to get out there and grab a little holiday cheer than last year.

Happy holidays everyone, and enjoy!

evening of Southern hospitality, great American music and side-splitting comedy that will delight audiences of every age. Add a couple of surprise guests, like Santa and his friends, and this show is guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit. For schedule and ticket information, visit www.rudytheatre.com/schedules

Christmas Lights Contest

Smithfield The Light Up Smithfield Christmas Lights Contest will feature four categories: Griswold (the more and tackier, the BETTER!), Traditionally Elegant, Best Theme and Best Window Display. Show your creativity and get the whole family involved! This contest is open to all residences and businesses inside the city limits. Houses and businesses should be decorated no later than Dec. 11. Judging will take place on Dec. 11-12 and winners will be named on Dec. 13.

Benson’s Light Fight

It’s almost that time of year — a season of twinkling lights throughout Benson. Along those lines, if you would like to enter your home or nominate a neighbor’s home for the Benson 2021 Light Fight Contest, follow this link, bit.ly/3nhSL8J. Trophies will be awarded to the top three finishers.

Ready Set Escape

1304-D Market Street, Smithfield Check out “Santa’s Cabin,” their 30-minute Christmas escape room experience.

Christmas Lights on the Farm

11959 Highway 222 W., Middlesex Enjoy a hayride

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Baptist Church and the tree lighting ceremony will take place at 8 p.m. in Town Square.

Thursday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m.

Kenly Christmas Parade Don’t miss Kenly’s annual Christmas Parade, held on the first Thursday in December.

through Christmas Town to our Field of Lights display. While visiting, enjoy music on stage and make s’mores by the fire pit.

Santa will be there taking pictures. Bucky and a few of his friends will be visiting also. There is a gift shop and concessions to enjoy. Open through Dec. 23. See www.christmaslightsonthefarm.com for complete schedule.

Tuesday, Dec. 1, 6 p.m.

Virtual Tree Lighting Downtown Smithfield This year’s tree lighting ceremony in Smithfield will be a virtual event, broadcast on the Town of Smithfield’s Facebook page. Join Mayor Andy Moore, along with a very special guest, as they flip the switch and light up Downtown Smithfield.

Dec. 1-5, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Drive-Thru Nativity Check out “The Greatest Gift,” a live drive-thru nativity experience, at 3400 N.C. Highway 242 South in Benson. Admission is free and gates will close at 9:30 p.m. The experience will include live animals such as camels, donkeys, sheep, goats and more.

Friday, Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m.

Walk Through Christmas Village Tobacco Farm Life Museum, Kenly Help us welcome the holiday season during our first night of our Christmas Village!

Dec. 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 6-8 p.m.

A Drive Thru Christmas Village Tobacco Farm Life Museum, Kenly The Tobacco Farm Life Museum, Kenly Area Chamber of Commerce, Town of Kenly and local businesses are working together to provide a special 2020 holiday program. Visit Kenly to tour their first ever drive through Christmas Village and to enjoy the downtown holiday decorations.

Friday, Dec. 3, 6 p.m.

Barbour’s Grove Park, 107 N. Railroad St., Four Oaks Come out to light the town of Four Oaks Christmas tree and enjoy an evening of free family fun including food and a Christmas movie!

Saturday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site, 5466 Harper House Road, Four Oaks Come celebrate a Civil War Christmas during this holiday event. Visitors can enjoy cookies and cider by the fire, period music, or stroll through the soldier’s camp. Kids of all ages are welcome to help make period decorations for the kitchen and Christmas tree. Event subject to change and cancellation. COVID safety guidelines will be followed as advised at the time of event.

Saturday, Dec. 4, 3:30 p.m.

Archer Lodge Community Center, 14009 Buffalo Road, Archer Lodge The Archer Lodge Community Center annual Christmas celebration will include a parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus, a tree lighting and food trucks.

Saturday, Dec. 4, 9-3 p.m.

Third-annual Christmas Craft Fair Pace Family Farms, 12701 Buffalo Road, Clayton Come out for our third annual Christmas Craft Fair!

Saturday, Dec. 4, 9-2 p.m.

Christmas on Main Kenly Area Chamber of Commerce, Main St., Kenly This is an annual event for the community and visitors to come and enjoy food and fun, buy from vendors and listen to the musical groups.

Friday, Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m.

Christmas on Main Downtown Benson Come out for a fun filled night as Benson welcomes the Christmas season. Shops will be open. There will be a tree lighting and Christmas parade. Don’t forget the entertainment!

Thursday, Dec. 2, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Main St. from O’Neal St. to Smith St. in Clayton Join us for the 31st Annual Downtown Clayton Christmas Village and Tree Lighting, presented by the Downtown Development Association and the Town of Clayton. There is a fun-filled lineup for the night including: Santa will arrive on a fire truck at 6 p.m. so kiddos can visit with Santa in Horne Square, a Downtown Business open house, the Storefront Decorating Contest winners will be announced, there will be performances by local schools, community groups, and entertainers, a Doggie Costume Parade by Roxie Daisy, a live nativity with Clayton First

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 9

Saturday, Dec. 4, 11 a.m.

information, visit www. rudytheatre.com.

Four Oaks Christmas Parade Downtown Four Oaks Bring the family and come out for the annual Four Oaks Christmas Parade down Main Street! The parade is presented by the Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce.

Thursday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m.

Smithfield Christmas Parade Bring out your families and celebrate the holiday season with the Smithfield Christmas Parade. If you are interested in participating, applications can be found in the SRAC lobby, online at Smithfield-nc.com or by contacting Tiffany Pearson at 919-934-2148.

Saturday, Dec. 4, 1 p.m.

Princeton Christmas Parade Downtown Princeton Come out for Princeton’s Christmas Parade, held annually on the first Saturday of December.

Saturday, Dec. 5, 9 a.m.

Santa’s Showdown Car & Truck Charity/ Toy Drive Christmas Lights on the Farm (Big Daddy’s Farm), 11959 Highway 222 W., Middlesex For details, visit www.lightsonthefarm.com.

Tuesday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m.

Christmas in Cleveland Cleveland Fire Rd., Clayton Mark your calendars for Christmas in Cleveland! Visit www.facebook.com/ events/4192794394179850 for more information.

Saturday, Dec. 11, 3 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 8 p.m.

Christmas with the Embers The Farm at 95, 215 Batten Rd., Selma You are invited to come out Dec. 8 for Christmas on The Farm! For more details, visit www.thefarmnc.com.

Wednesday, Dec. 8, 7 p.m.

Eddie Miles Christmas Show Live@The Rudy Theatre, Selma Eddie Miles comes back to Selma to perform an Elvis Christmas Show. He is a great tribute artist and performer. For more

Clayton Christmas Parade The parade co-hosts will be the Rotary Club of Clayton and town of Clayton. As the parade is a holiday celebration, we ask all to to leave politics and protests behind for a moment, and bring a celebratory and community spirit to the event. Let’s make it a fun experience for the children! Until parade day, we wish everyone a happy, safe and blessed holiday season, and look forward to seeing you on Dec. 11. Visit www.claytonchristmasparade.org to learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 11, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Breakfast With Santa Serving Spoon at 119, Pine Level Enjoy a delicious breakfast and get a little quality time for your young ones with jolly ol’ St. Nick! Make reservations at www. eventbrite.com. Visit Serving Spoon at 119 on Facebook for more information.

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Saturday, Dec.11, 4 p.m.

Christmas in Micro The annual Micro Christmas Parade is set for Saturday, Dec. 11. The tree lighting will follow at 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 11, 5-8 p.m.

Cookies with Santa The Grocery Bag, 4879 Highway 42 E., Clayton Come join us for Cookies with Santa! Bring your own camera and take photos!

Saturday, Dec. 11, 5:30 p.m.

"Polar Express" Movie Night The Grocery Bag, 4879 Highway 42 E., Clayton Come out for a fun filled night! Santa Claus will be inside the store from 4-8 p.m. "Polar Express" movie on the hill with popcorn and hot cocoa! Wear your pjs and bring a blanket!

Dec. 15, 11 a.m. and Dec. 17, 6 p.m.

Story Time with Santa James Bryan Creech Public Library, Four Oaks Santa will read a story to children of all ages. He will take time to listen to each child’s wish list and give parents a chance to take their own photos. (Please bring your own camera.) Each child will receive a small gift from Santa. Times for children with sensory issues are also available.

Please call the library for more information at 919-963-6013.

Wednesday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m.

Christmas with the Embers Live@The Rudy, 300 N. Raiford St., Selma The Embers will perform their Christmas Show featuring Craig Woolard. For more information, visit www,rudytheatre.com.

Dec. 15-17, 7-9 p.m.

Drive Thru Nativity Pleasant Hill Christian Church, Benson Pleasant Hill Christian Church presents a live nativity — the story of Christ presented in 10 scenes. Enjoy the animals and lantern-lit drive as you and your family experience the real meaning of Christmas. There is no charge or admission fee, and you are invited to drive through as many times as you would like! They request only single-family vehicles drive through the nativity. Visit www.drivethrunativity.org to learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 18, 8:30, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Breakfast with Santa Selma Civic Center, 300 N. Webb St., Selma Start the day in a merry way by joining Santa for breakfast, perfect for the whole family! Take a photo with Santa, write a letter to Santa and enjoy the Christmas songs. For more information, call Selma Parks and Recreation at 919-975-1411.

pianofestival.org/events.

Thursday, Dec. 24, 6 p.m.

Christmas Eve at the Library James Bryan Creech Public Library, Four Oaks The library will be closed but the public is invited to come out for hot cocoa, coffee and finger foods. Video games will be available for kids of all ages and conversation will be on offer for the adults. Call the library for more information at 919-963-6013.

Thursday, Dec. 24, 6 p.m.

Eden Woods Luminaries Eden Drive, Smithfield Residents of Eden Woods subdivision in Smithfield will line their streets with luminaries on Christmas Eve (weather permitting). Guests are invited to drive through the candlelit neighborhood.

Thursday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m.

Clayton Piano Festival Holiday Gala Twin Oaks Barn, Cornwallis Road, Garner Clayton Piano Festival presents this star-studded holiday concert celebration as a finale to its 10th anniversary season. The show features jazz and classical legend, Joel A. Martin, Broadway star, John Arthur Greene ("West Side Story", "Matilda", "School of Rock", "Tootsie"), classical and jazz vocalist Angelique Alexander, multigenre violinist Christin Danchi, David Richards and the Swingsters Union Band and artistic director, Jonathan Levin, pianist. The musical selections will be brought to you by narration from the renowned poet, Shelby Stephenson. For ticket information, visit www.clayton-

New Year’s Eve at The Farm Come ring in 2022 with Jim Quick & Coastline on The Farm at 95! They are reserving a limited number of tables for $100 per table. These tables seat up to eight people and do not include admission into the event. This will be the only way to guarantee a seat for the evening. Tickets will be sold separately and are on sale now at etix.com! Learn more at www.facebook.com/events/780530899478287.

We'd like to thank the students at the Cary and Clayton School for Creative Arts for their illustration submissions.

Illustrations provided by Julia Hagan, Pippa Zwirschitz, Lani Boerema, Caroline Alley and Alexandra Kirby.

Thursday, Dec. 31, 9 p.m.

Diane Bailey meets Elvis Live@The Rudy Theatre, Selma Diane Bailey is bringing an Elvis legend, Stephen Freeman,

and Dayle Eason, a country crooner, to the Rudy Theatre for 2021 New Year's Eve. Party favors will included for a fun night. For more information, visit www.rudytheatre.com.

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 11

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I

Holiday gift guide

t’s that special time of year again, and folks will be getting together for their traditional holiday gatherings, in many cases after not doing so last year. What better way to make the holidays more memorable for that special family member, friend, or spouse than a great gift?

As always, your friends at Johnston Now are here to help. We’ve asked around and gathered a few gift giving ideas that will not only tickle the fancy of those on your shopping list, but help you shop local and support your neighbors this holiday season.

With that, we wish you all the best this holiday season. Happy shopping!

WAX MELT This wax melt from Totally Awesome Candles is a vegan soy wax melt made with high quality oils that are phthalate, carcinogen and mutagens free as well as prop-65 compliant.

Each product is handmade in small batches with quality in mind. The cost is $4.99 each and if you buy four you get the fifth one free. Contact them at www.Totallyawesomecandles. com, on Facebook at Totally Awesome Candles or at jaclyn@ totallyawesomecandles.com. They are a woman-owned business looking to make the shop local and shop small mentality become a major focus in the future.

SOY CANDLE Totally Awesome Candles offers these handcrafted soy candles that are fragranced with clean oils free of carcinogens, mutagens and are prop-65 compliant. Each candle is handmade in small batches with only quality in mind. Candles are $14.99 each, and if you buy four you get the fifth one free. Contact them at www.

Totallyawesomecandles.com, on Facebook at Totally Awesome Candles or at jaclyn@totallyawesomecandles. com. They are a woman-owned business looking to make the shop local and shop small mentality become a major focus in the future.

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MINI DOUBLE HAPPINESS JAR This adorable blue and white mini double happiness ginger jar offered

by Curated & Company Interiors is perfect for your Christmas list. Its size makes it the perfect layering piece for your bookshelves. Curated & Company Interiors is a small scale interior decorating firm and one-of-a-kind vintage boutique.

They specialize in mixing patterns and textures to create a curated space that is unique to each client. They believe in a colorful and affordable approach to interior design. Their team offers a new perspective on traditional small-scale design. Curated & Company Interiors loves the challenge of creating a curated and reimagined vibe with your existing and newly sourced pieces to maximize your budget and help your home’s functionality coexist with your modern lifestyle.

THREE LITTLE BIRDS GIFT CERTIFICATE Don’t know what to get your family and friends for Christmas? Give them a gift certificate from Three Little Birds, where they’ll find furniture, home decor, apparel, gifts and much more.

THREE LITTLE BIRDS GIFT BASKET Need a grab and go, beautifully wrapped gift for the holidays? Three Little Birds gift baskets can be perfectly customized to make sure you wow the person receiving it. Varying price levels and themes are available. Premade themes include relax baskets, coffee lovers baskets, wine and home baskets, foodie baskets and more.

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 15

DADDY JACK’S COFFEE Daddy Jack’s “A Taste of New Orleans” from Oak City Collection in Smithfield will be perfect for the coffee lover on your gift list! Cold Brew kits are also available. Oak City Collection is located at 105 S. Third St. and can be reached at 919-810-7472.

PORCELAIN ORNAMENTS Oak City Collection in Smithfield offers elegant porcelain ornaments. There are many images available as well as custom images for your household. Please inquire at 105 S. Third St. in Smithfield or by calling 919-8107472.

SNACKS CUSTOM CHARCUTERIE Give the gift of meat and cheese from snaCKs Custom Charcuterie & Provisions. With delivery options in Johnston County, they can deliver a perfectly curated charcuterie board to your friends and family for their holiday celebrations! You can also pick one up from one of their Johnston County pick up locations and surprise your host, or hostess with a very unique and delicious gift! The cost is $65. Contact them at www.snacksNC.com.

PAINT SESSION Join The Crowing Hen for an instructor-led paint session in a fun art studio! All supplies are provided. Participants bring the wine and food. Artwork can then be printed on various items such as coasters, tumblers or tree ornaments for an additional fee. At The Crowing Hen, each person in the group can make their own selection based on their own preferences. The fact that The Crowing Hen can print the participants' art on various items is also very unique. The cost for the session is $40. The Crowing Hen is located at 325 E. Main St. in Clayton.

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BENSON T-SHIRTS The Benson Chamber is now selling Benson, zip code 27504 t-shirts. Additionally, the chamber has Benson mugs, shot glasses and ornaments. Contact Loretta Byrd at 919-894-3825 or loretta@benson-chamber.com.

LIFESAVING TRAINING When someone has it all, why not share the gift of life with them at MedicalTraining.me! They offer first aid and CPR AED classes, as well as babysitting classes. These are perfect gifts that make a difference! Their staff has life saving experience and the ability to teach it to non-medical people so that everyone walks away feeling more confident about their ability to make a difference when seconds count! The cost for the lifesaving training is $90. Contact them at melissa@medicaltraining.me.

They are located at 101 E. Market St., Suite 2D, Smithfield NC.

CHEETAH SUPER SOFT BLANKET These are the most amazing blanket throws. They’re $62 and make for wonderful gifts. They’re available on the 104 Clothing and Boutique app or in store at 5638 N.C. 42 West in Garner.

SWAN CREEK CANDLES These candles are 100% soybean wax and poured in the USA! They smell amazing and 104 Clothing and Boutique has many scents and sizes from which to choose. The cost is $23, and they’re available via their app or in store at 5638 N.C. 42 West in Garner.

MASSAGE THERAPY GIFT CARD Give a gift card for a 60-minute massage therapy session at HealthQuest Wellness & Fitness Center in Smithfield. Improve your well-being with massage therapy. Licensed, certified therapists use hands-on techniques to mobilize muscles, relax tissues and enhance health in people of all ages. Massage therapy can decrease anxiety and stress, ease muscle aches, stiffness and chronic pain; improve joint range of motion and flexibility, increase circulation so your tissues and organs get more healing oxygen and nutrients, lessen insomnia and fatigue, reduce swelling and relieve headaches and reduce occurrence of migraines. Services include deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, massage cupping, medical massage, myofasical massage, pregnancy massage, Swedish massage and trigger point therapy. A therapist will design sessions to meet individual needs. They may use several approaches, such as aromatherapy, thermotherapy (heat) and/or cryotherapy (cold). [ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 17

LIGHTS OF JOY CAMPAIGN Make a a gift to the Johnston Health Foundation’s Lights of Joy Campaign in honor of someone special. Bring light to someone’s holiday by making a gift in their honor, while also bringing joy to Johnston Health patients and their families spending time with in the hospital during the holiday season season and giving hope of a brighter future to healthcare workers who have worked tirelessly through the pandemic. The gift is $25. An acknowledgment card and special tribute ornament will be mailed to your honoree or designated family member as notification of your generous gift. Please respond by Dec. 17 for your tribute to receive their ornament before Dec. 25. Proceeds from Lights of Joy will allow Johnston Health Foundation to continue to support the programs and services of Johnston Health, ultimately enhancing the quality of care that is delivered to patients and their families, as well as ensuring all patients have access to treatment no matter their financial circumstance. Contact the foundation at www.johnstonhealth.org/lightsofjoy, at 919-938-7348, or at foundation@johnstonhealth.org.

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Reggie Barnes Basketball Court opens in Selma Submitted by TOWN OF SELMA

SELMA — The Town of Selma Parks and Recreation Department announced Oct. 25 that the Reggie Barnes Basketball Court is now open and ready for play.

The Reggie Barnes Basketball Court is located on the campus of the Harrison Gymnasium located at 601 W. Noble St. It is situated next to the Jacquelyn J. Lacy Tennis Courts.

“Selma is so proud that Reggie was able to give back to the community in which he started,” said Parks and Recreation director Billy Roach. “Reggie truly is an inspiration for all the youth here in Selma.

We cannot wait to conduct events here on the court in his honor.”

Barnes was born and raised in Selma by his mother, Carolyn Davis, and his grandmother, Cora Sneed. He graduated from Smithfield-Selma High School, where he excelled in basketball from 1982-85. He was a three-time Most

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The Reggie Barnes Basketball Court is now open in Selma. At the opening ceremony were, from left, Selma Parks and Recreation Department athletic supervisor Rodrick Worth; town council member Ann Williams; town manager Brent Taylor; town council member Byron McAllister, Barnes, Selma native and founder of Realtime Hope; mayor Cheryl Oliver, town council member Joe Scarboro; and parks and recreation director Billy Roach.

Valuable Player recipient, the 1985 CAP-8 Conference Player of the Year, Metro Player of the Year, First Team All-Conference, First Team All-East and Greensboro News & Record All-State. He

was also named honorable mention for the McDonald’s All-American game and the Converse All American Team.

He was the first Smithfield-Selma basketball player selected to play in the

North Carolina Coaches Association East/West All-Star Game in 1985. He finished his high school basketball career as the third leading scorer in CAP-8 history.

Barnes was highly recruited by several NCAA Division 1 Universities and was the first Smithfield-Selma player to play at the NCAA Division 1 level. He elected to stay close to home and chose to play for the University of North Carolina-Charlotte for thenhead coach Jeff Mullins.

Barnes was a four-year letterman for the 49ers, started games as a freshman, played in more than 100 games during his college career at Charlotte, and played in the first round of the NCAA Basketball Tournament in 1988 as Charlotte won the Sun Belt Conference championship.

He graduated in 3 1/2 years

from UNC-Charlotte with a degree in human services/ psychology and a minor in African-American studies. In May 1989, he became the first person in his family to graduate from college.

His non-profit organization, Realtime Hope, has given thousands of dollars toward scholarships in Johnston County and has completed several mission projects internationally. Giving back to the community has always had a special place in his heart, and he has made it his mission to offer free basketball clinics and community fun days in Selma. Over the years, Barnes says he has been extremely blessed and will continue to support communities through giving back. His motto is, “If you help enough people get what they want, by default you will always get what you want.”

“This court would not be possible without the support and love from my God, my family and my friends,” Barnes said. “I dedicate this court to the memory of my grandmother, Cora Sneed.

May she see the love and the dreams this court will bring to many young people from this day forth.”

After dribbling the first basketball on the court and making a lay-up as the first shot, Reggie invited everyone there to enjoy the court.

Rodrick Worth, Selma parks and recreation athletic supervisor, conducted free throw and hot shot contests.

The winners in the youth contests were Harvey Raby in the free throw contest and Zion Rhue was the hot shot/ free throw winner.

The courts can be reserved

Rodrick Worth, Salem Parks and Recreation athletic director, stands behind Harvey Raby, left, free throw contest winner and Zion Rhue, hot shot/free throw winner.

for private games by contacting the Selma Parks and Recreation Department at 919-975-1411.

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 21

At center, CEO Tom Williams congratulates Sherry Holloman on being named Johnston Health Ambassador of the Month. At left is David Willoughby, director of pharmacy services; and at right are Ruth Marler, chief operating officer; and Tracey Carson, associate vice president of patient care services. In addition to a parking sign and designated parking spot, Holloman will receive eight hours of paid time off.

22 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Clinical pharmacist named Ambassador of the Month Submitted by JOHNSTON HEALTH

SMITHFIELD — Johnston Health has recognized Sherry Holloman, a clinical pharmacist, as Ambassador of the Month.

During a recent presentation, CEO Tom Williams said Holloman is an effective leader, communicator and resource for teammates. In addition to organizing and implementing clinical initiatives, she participates in clinical patient rounds, and goes above and beyond to educate and advocate for patients.

“She always promotes courtesy and professionalism, and is always willing to help out,” he said.

Holloman grew up in the Corbett Hatcher Community, about 8 miles from Selma. She has worked with Johnston Health for 33 years and became the hospital’s first clinical pharmacist in 2011.

Holloman has yet another noteworthy tie to Johnston Health. She was born in the labor and delivery department where she now works. About three years ago, the hospital gutted and remodeled the old space, which has been used more recently for offices, into the modern, spacious pharmacy that it is today.

About her work as a clinical pharmacist, Holloman says she most enjoys rounding on the nursing units where she interacts

and assists other colleagues. She also serves on system committees where she works to ensure that the pharmacy is operating cost effectively and prescribing medicines that yield the best possible health outcomes.

She and her husband, Dennis, live near Pine Level. Their son, Clif, and his wife, Brooke, are expecting their first child in early 2022.

Through the ambassador program, Johnston Health recognizes employees 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, Holloman will receive eight hours of paid time off.

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AdvanceTEC to invest more than $10 million near Clayton Submitted by JOHNSTON COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

CLAYTON — AdvanceTEC, a leader in cleanroom design, construction and mission-critical process integration, will invest more than $10 million in a new site in Johnston County. The Richmond, Virginia-based company intends to create an advanced skilled workforce at a location near Clayton, which will serve biotechnology companies in the Research Triangle and throughout the United States.

“Johnston County’s place in the 21st century life sciences industry is taking an important step forward with the addition of AdvanceTEC as a corporate resident,” said Chad M. Stewart,

24 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

chairman of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners. “Our position at the center of numerous biotechnology companies and operations has helped draw leading companies like AdvanceTEC that have industry-specific expertise in demand by companies like Novo Nordisk, Grifols and a host of other life science and advanced technology operations both east and west of us.”

Founded in 2000, AdvanceTEC serves clients in the biotech, nanotech and cleantech industries. It’s expertise can be found in government, military, university and corporate facilities. The privately held firm has successfully constructed facilities for research, pilot production and highvolume manufacturing applications.

AdvanceTEC works with leading

technology companies, construction managers and architectural/engineering firms to construct state-of-the-art cleanrooms that enable next-generation technologies. The firm’s expertise includes turn-key design/build projects, where performance, schedule, cost and safety are critical. The value of a typical project ranges from $500,000 to $40 million.

Additional information may be found at www.AdvanceTECLLC.com.

“AdvanceTEC is pleased to invest in Johnston County to serve leading biotech clients in the region, as well as throughout the United States,” said Bryan Phelan, the company’s managing partner and director of customers. “Our new advanced prefabrication and modularization facility will continue to separate AdvanceTEC

as the market leader in cleanroom design, construction, and mission critical process utilities. We look forward to being a great corporate citizen and serving our demanding clients.”

AdvanceTEC will build on a 12-acre property off U.S. Highway 70 Business between Clayton and Smithfield. Once fully staffed, the facility will produce an annual payroll impact of $2.6 million for the region’s economy. It’s operations will create a total economic impact of nearly $16 million per year, according to an analysis by Dr. Michael Walden, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus at North Carolina State University and president of Walden

AdvanceTEC executive group members are, from left, Drew Fischer, director of operations, south; John Burton, founder/owner and drector of technology; Gene Taylor, director of integration; Bryan Phelan, managing partner and director of customers; and Ted Schaper, director of operations, north.

Economic Consulting, LLC. The site will generate more than $168,000 in county and municipal tax revenue each year, Walden found.

“Diversification has long been a hallmark of

Johnston County’s economic development strategy,” said Randy Jones, chairman of the Johnston County Economic Development Advisory Board. “With the arrival of AdvanceTEC,

we see continued vertical development of our life sciences sector that pairs our leadership in biopharma with our strong reputation as a destination for specialty manufacturing.”

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 25

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DowntownSmithfield.com 26 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Red Ribbon Week parade held at Pine Level Elementary

Submitted by JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

PINE LEVEL ­­­— Students, staff, and families of Pine Level Elementary School came out in a show of force for the school’s eighth annual Red Ribbon Week Parade Friday, Oct. 29.

Members of the school were joined by community members, local officials, members of the Johnston County Sheriff’s Department and Pine Level Police and Fire departments for the parade.

Red Ribbon Week is the largest and longest-running drug prevention campaign in the United States. The first national Red Ribbon celebration was launched in 1988 and continues to serve as a motivation to mobilize communities to educate youth about drugs and encourage participation in drug-free activities.

The Red Ribbon Week Parade was the brainchild of school counselor Abigail Stephenson, who debuted the school’s first parade in 2013.

“I wanted it to be meaningful and memorable,” she said. “It’s a huge decision to live your

life drug-free.”

The parade is the grand finale of Pine Level Elementary’s Spirit Week.

Each day consisted of a different theme leading up to the parade. Monday’s theme was “Say BOO to Drugs” where students and staff wore Halloween getups. Wednesday was “Drugs Can’t Find Me” and everyone was encouraged to wear camouflage. Friday’s “Rally in Red” theme created a sea of red all over the school and around the community.

“The children need something like this to be excited about,” said Deborah

Baker, who has served Pine Level Elementary for the last 18 years.

The excitement was palpable as students made their way from the gymnasium to outside for their march around the school. The students made posters and small floats to display as they paraded through town. Some students and staff also donned ties to show support for their beloved principal, Allen Sasser. October is also National Principals’ Month and Sasser loves to wear

Pine Level Elementary held the school’s annual Red Ribbon Week parade Oct. 29. Leading the parade, from left, are Pine Level Mayor Jeff Holt, Pine Level Elementary School counselor Abigail Stephenson, and Pine Level town commissioner Phil Pittman.

Pine Level Elementary first grade student Leighton Hickey, far left, joyfully shakes a noisemaker during the school’s Red Ribbon Week Parade.

fun ties.

For Sasser, his favorite thing about Red Ribbon Week is the annual parade. “I enjoy seeing the students and community rallying together to show our students that they have support to stay drugfree,” he said.

With the help of Pine Level students, their families, staff and PTA members, the parade is truly a community effort.

This year’s grand marshal, Mayor Jeff Holt, mandated the parade to be an annual event.

Pine Level is clearly a community dedicated to teaching its young students how to live a drug-free existence.

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[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 27

Meadow Lights to return this holiday season

By MIKE BOLLINGER

BENSON — A Johnston County Christmas tradition will return for 2021.

After being closed in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Meadow Lights opened for this year’s Christmas season Nov. 19. The light display will be open until Dec. 31.

“We missed it,” said Meadow Lights owner and founder Roy Johnson Sr. “We’ve been doing lights over 40 years.”

Johnson’s daughter, Ronina Tart, is business manager for the attraction.

“We’ve had a ton of calls from people asking if we would be open this year.

There were a lot of upset people last year when we didn’t open,” Tart said.

“It’s a part of our family. We wouldn’t know what to do with ourselves if we had been closed again,” said Nicole Barefoot, Tart’s daughter and assistant manager.

Barefoot said she hopes reopening this year will help take people’s minds off the

28 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

pandemic. “People need to get out of the house and do something that will put a smile on their faces,” she said.

“Many people say it’s part of their Christmas tradition.

We have one family that comes every Thanksgiving night,” Johnson said.

“We know it brings a lot of joy to people.”

Barefoot said she saw a social media message from a person who plans to come to Meadow Lights twice this year to make up for not being to visit last year.

Meadow Lights has four trains that give visitors an up close look at part of the more than 30 acres of lights that make up the largest and oldest Christmas light display in eastern North Carolina.

Meadow Lights started more than 40 years ago when Johnson started decorating his yard and has grown into the largest and oldest holiday light display in eastern North Carolina. In addition to the more than 30 acres of lights, there is the Old Country Store, which specializes in all kinds of candy as well as specialty drinks; a carousel, a concession stand and Santa Claus visits every year to visit and take photos.

The carousel is fully enclosed and will operate rain or shine. Concessions are available starting Thanksgiving night.

“It just kept expanding. People kept coming, more and more of them. I never thought it would turn into what it is today. We started The candy store is always adding things, and it just got a popular spot bigger and bigger,” Johnson for visitors at said.

“We get a lot of older Meadow Lights. people. They love it.”

The main feature of Meadow

The candy store at Meadow Lights was being stocked during a late October visit.

Lights is the train that carries visitors through the light display. The idea for the train started when Johnson took his family on a visit to Tweetsie Railroad in the North Carolina mountains. “He saw the train there and said he could build one,” Tart said.

The first train was built around a lawn mower and ran loops around the parking lot, about a two-minute ride. “That’s where it all began. The line kept getting longer and longer. Now we have four trains,” Tart said.

While riding the train is the best way to enjoy the lights, they are visible from Godwin Lake Road and from the parking lot. The trains carry visitors through the display for close-up viewing. Each of the trains can carry 50 people at a time. They have windows on three sides for added protection on cold nights. The trains run through about 10 acres of the display on a six-loop course.

There is no charge if visitors choose to view the lights from the parking lot or from behind the white fence that surrounds the display. “We’ve never Sef Stanley charged anything if was testing lights and someone just wants to replacing bulbs see the lights,” Johnson at Meadow said.

Lights.

There are more than

300 varieties of candy in the Old Country Store, including sugar-free kinds for those who need them. Meadow Lights specializes in old fashioned candy and Christmas candy. “We keep the candy store open until we run out. Normally, we can keep it open at least through Christmas Eve,” Tart said.

Businesses of all kinds are having trouble getting merchandise, and Meadow Lights is no exception. “We are getting candy in, but slowly,” Tart said in late October. “Normally by now, we have all our candy in. All the baskets in the store would normally be full by now.”

Some suppliers have told Tart they can’t get the supplies they need to make the candy.

Johnson said candy is normally ordered in June and July in order to have it on time.

The store also carries old-fashioned drinks in glass bottles, including Sun Drop, Cheerwine, Nehi grape, orange and peach old-fashioned ginger ale and “little Cokes.” [ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 29

the storms and weather, we can’t leave them up all year,” she said.

“It seems like by the time we take them down, it’s time to start back up again,” Barefoot said.

There are about 25 seasonal employees at Meadow Lights, and about half of those are family members. “It truly is a family affair,” Tart said.

Unsurprisingly, there can be lines during the peak of the holiday season. “Most people expect the lines.

They understand we can’t do anything Meadow Lights about the long lines is the oldest and and some people largest Christmas light show in say that’s one of the eastern North cool things about Carolina. visiting,” Tart said. the display, each “They come in groups with 200 amp and make a party out of service. The largest it.” display is 37 feet tall.

Barefoot said there have According to Tart, the been times when cars are lights start going up in midbacked up from Meadow September and are taken Lights to the exit ramp off down in mid-January. “With

Also available are preserves, hot apple cider, old-fashioned signs and more.

The decision to close last year was a hard one, Tart said. “We had to think of our employees. We wanted to do what’s right. It was too big a risk for the public and our employees,” she said.

For 2021, Tart said, precautions will be taken to keep people as safe as possible.

Shields will be installed at the cash registers, and face masks and social distancing will be recommended.

According to www. meadowlights. com, there are Meadow Lights is truly a more than family operation. From 8,000 light left are business manager Ronina Tart, founder and bulbs in owner Roy Johnson Sr., the display.

1-year-old Callie Mae Tart said Barefoot and Nicole the exact Barefoot. Tart is Johnson’s daughter, Callie Mae his number is great-granddaughter unknown. and Barefoot his There are 20 granddaughter. meter boxes for 30 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Interstate 40 about 2 miles away.

When Johnston Now visited in late October, the process of testing the lights had begun.

“Testing is one of my favorite times. It means we’re about to start,” Barefoot said.

Family holidays are also affected by the operation.

Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations have to be held early in the day because of preparation for the night’s visitors. Johnson’s birthday is Dec. 13, and once things shut down for the day he has his birthday cake around 11 p.m.

Meadow Lights is open Nov. 19 through Dec. 31 from 5-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Train rides are $3 per person, carousel rides are $2, visits with Santa are free and photos with Santa are $7. The address is 4546 Godwin Lake Road, Benson.

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 31

Fourteen young women from FIRST Robotics Team 6004 f(x) Robotics competed at the all-girl Doyenne Inspiration Robotics Competition recently in Cary and took home first-place honors. The team is comprised of students from across Johnston County and is housed at Smithfield-Selma Senior High School. (Photo by Keilana Mutchler)

Local team wins all-girl robotics competition Submitted by SHANNON MANN

Fourteen young women from Johnston County took home top honors at a recent FIRST Robotics off-season competition held in Cary.

FRC Team 6004 f(x) Robotics, a community robotics team based at Smithfield-Selma Senior High School, was named overall grand champion at the Doyenne Inspiration Competition held Oct. 23.

The all-girl competition is about empowering young female and nonbinary students through FIRST Robotics to become engineers, computer scientists and STEM leaders. Marie Hopper, president of FIRST North Carolina, told the crowd at the competition that she is often asked why she encourages an all-girl competition.

“Our young women need to step up to be heard, and to be strong,” Hopper said.

32 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

“Less than 18% of the STEM workforce is female, and by fourth grade most girls think they aren’t good enough to do STEM. Doyenne is here to give them an opportunity.”

Hopper went on to share statistics of female participation in FIRST NC over the past few years. For years, girls made up 30-32% of participants across the state. However, in 2019 with the start of the first Doyenne Inspiration competition that number soared to 40%. As teams across the state, nation and globe see a resurgence in activity since the pandemic, f(x) Robotics is boasting more female participation this year then any of its past years combined.

“We have 20 girls registered to our team this year. That’s 50% of our team,” said Troy Brindle, volunteer head coach and owner of the Gilded Pear in Smithfield.

“In the past we were lucky to get three.

It’s great to see so many of them getting

involved and wanting to learn more about this program.”

Elle Stephenson is a ninth grader at Smithfield-Selma, and a first-time participant on the robotics team, where she is learning to code the robot and work with its electrical components. “When I was younger I wasn’t attracted to this kind of stuff because the boys always turned me away from it,” she said. “But on this team we support each other, and I love that there are so many girls.”

During Doyenne Inspiration, Stephenson served as part of the robot pit crew helping to fix problems that arose and transporting the robot to and from game play. During the competition, half the team worked in the pits making last minute mechanical repairs or troubleshooting mechanical issues that happened during game play, updating or fixing code, and serving as part of the drive and operations team during live matches.

Kaitlyn Nolte, a freshman in Johnston County Early College Academy’s engineering program, served as the lead driver during the final championship matches.

Nolte isn’t new to the FIRST family, having been part of the only all-girl FIRST Lego League Robotics team in Johnston County for the past two years. “My time in FLL taught me so many things that contributed to my experience at Doyenne,” she said. “During FLL, I learned how to work well with others as a team, effective problem solving, presentation skills, confidence while speaking in public, and so much more. All of these skills correlate closely with what you need to do in FRC and at the competitions.”

Nolte said continuing with robotics in high school was important to her because she sees herself pursuing it

in college and as a possible career. She added that while she enjoys all the aspects of robotics, she also enjoys the social aspects. “I loved meeting all the girls from the other teams. At competition it is really a team effort,” she said. “Everyone has a role.”

With half the team in the pits and on the field of play, the other half served a vital role in marketing and as scouts. Scouts watched all the matches to take notes about different team’s capabilities and strategies on, and off, the field. After qualifying match rounds ended, scouts collected their intelligence to work with the pit team on making final decisions for which teams should be on their alliance going into championship rounds.

Rebekah Jenkins, a senior at Smithfield-Selma Senior and the f(x) Robotics award

f(x) Robotics members Rebekah Jenkins, Jordan Watts and Camryn Lovette talk with a team member from FRC Team 3506 Yeti from Charlotte during Doyenne Inspiration. Scouting is a major part of each robotics competition. Jenkins and Lovette are students at SSS High School. Watts attends Neuse Charter School. (Photo by Keilana Mutchler)

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 33

chair, has served f(x) Robotics as a scout for four years and knows the importance of the role to winning game play. “The ability to look at others and see how their strengths and weaknesses compliment yours is one of the most important skills at a competition. Working with other teams is a big part of tournaments, and being able to pick which team will help you get further in the competition is highly important to success,” she said.

“This is why scouting is necessary. The act of collecting data about other teams and analyzing it helps determine which teams to choose and which not to, which can determine your ultimate success or failure.”

With a majority of the girls being new to robotics, the competition started out a bit rough as mechanical problems plagued the team in its early matches. “We were lucky to have a great alliance with the girls of Triple Strange Team 1533,” said Sloan Mann, a home school student who works on f(x) Robotics digital animation team, and who served as the team’s alliance captain for the competition. “We had a dead battery and couldn’t move, but they

pushed us into an area where we could score some points and that helped our alliance win its first match.”

With morning matches putting the team in eighth place, the girls buckled down and unleashed their robot’s full potential, completing several difficult technical moves in the afternoon. Their multiple double and triple climbs led them into second place by the end of qualifying matches and made them one of four alliance captains going into the championship rounds.

“We knew we needed a good final alliance to win,” Mann said. “We picked Team 3737 Roto Raptors from Goldsboro because we had worked with them before and we knew how good they were. All the team captains also decided that we would all pick a defensive robot to put on our alliance. We selected Team 9998 Slice with girls from Fuquay-Varina. We all worked really well together.”

In the end, f(x) Robotics made excellent alliance picks because they went undefeated in the final three championship matches and won the overall competition.

Kenly 95 PETRO

34 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

“Doyenne was a great learning experience for me,” Nolte said.

“I would say to a middle school girl thinking she cannot do STEM to not be intimidated by the field because it is male dominated. Always be open to new experiences even if it may be scary at first.”

“I’ve come incredibly far since I first joined robotics, and I’ve been fortunate enough to watch many other girls come just as far if not farther. FIRST proves that girls are just as capable of doing STEM as anyone else. You’ll never know how far it’ll take you until you do it,” Jenkins added.

The girls of Team 6004 f(x) Robotics have dedicated sponsors for their #FIRSTLikeAGirl initiatives and receive financial support from Caterpillar of Clayton, Horizon Family Medicine, Artmosphere, Mast Law Firm, Clayton Women in Networking and SheCar. To find out more about f(x) Robotics or to see their #FIRSTLikeAGirl resources for middle-school aged girls, visit frc6004. com or follow them on Facebook @ FRC6004.

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 35

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JCPS honors county veterans with annual celebration Submitted by JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SMITHFIELD — ­ Johnston County Public Schools held its 17th annual Veterans Day celebration to honor and recognize all Johnston County veterans for their service Nov. 11.

Due to the continuing pandemic, the event was held virtually again this year.

“Our veterans have done so much for our country that our district worked to ensure this year’s celebration, albeit virtual, honored our men and women of the United States Armed Forces the best and safest way possible,” said Caitlin Furr, executive director of communication for Johnston County Public Schools.

Participants of the virtual ceremony included retired Fort Bragg Chief of Operations Pascal Goicoechea, Johnston

38 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

County Director of Veterans Services Robert Boyette, Junior Reserve Officer Training cadets from seven JCPS high schools, the 2020 Johnston County AllCounty Chorus, the Corinth Holders High School Marching Band, and the North Johnston High Chorus.

Goicoechea delivered the keynote address. Born and raised in Cuba, in 1960, he and his family came to the United States. They moved to Texas and he learned English with a “Texas harmony and twang” to it. To further him along, his English teacher gave him a history book to read at home.

In 1969, Goicoechea was at a crossroads in his life. He shared that he was in college for all the wrong reasons and was headed nowhere fast. On July 20, 1969, when Apollo 11 landed on the

moon, that moment led him to enlist in the military. “I fell in love with the discipline,” he said. In 1977, “GoGo,” as he is known by his comrades, was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry in the U.S. Army.

Over the next 33 years he served mostly in worldwide command assignments, in garrison (military outposts) and combat environments. In 2010 he retired as Chief of operations at Fort Bragg. He and his wife currently reside in Clayton, and he serves as a member of the Clayton Rotary.

He spoke of being part of an exclusive 1% club that makes up the U.S. Armed Forces. Although he and his fellow comrades were from diverse backgrounds, they molded into one. “We lost the words ‘me’ and ‘I’ and became ‘us,’” he said.

Goicoechea praised the role of women in the military.

“Women make up 19% of the entire fighting force and without which the other 81% would not get the green light without their support,” he said.

He gave advice to JCPS JROTC cadets, the focus of this year’s celebration. In addition to honoring current and retired veterans, this year’s celebration highlighted the next generation of veterans. Lastly, he told the JROTC cadets, “Be aware that the freedoms we enjoy today were earned by millions of men and women who sacrificed so much to be part of that 1 percent club.”

Johnston County Public Schools has seven JROTC programs in high schools throughout the county, totaling

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 39

approximately 650 young men and women.

“My favorite thing about JROTC is how close you end up getting to people you didn’t even know,“ she said.

“Friends become family and that’s what I like about it,” said North Johnston High School cadet Johanna Morales.

Once Morales graduates, she plans to go to college, study criminal justice, and then become an officer in the Marines. For anyone thinking of joining JROTC, her advice is to simply do it.

Clayton High School freshman Zhaionne Sison saw JROTC as a way to “be a part of something meaningful.”

Sison remembered JROTC cadets coming to her middle school and performing the color guard for different events which inspired her to join.

She already has a plan for after high school that consists

40 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

of college and becoming an interpreter. Sison also wants to learn sign language so she can help people with disabilities. “I have learned to be more confident,” she said.

“The skills I’ve learned will help me a lot with leading my own life, making those hard decisions and having the discipline to keep my priorities straight.”

West Johnston County High School seniors A’Rheanna Turay and Breanna Stephenson talked about their future plans. Turay’s plans include attending medical school and becoming a military physician.

Stephenson is hopeful for a military scholarship to attend Michigan State University.

She wants to study criminal justice, become a private investigator and get assigned to a case that will be followed by the public worldwide.

Pfc Zachary Barefoot said joining JROTC was the best decision he ever made. A 2020 graduate of South Johnston High School, Barefoot was inspired by his father who was in the military. “He showed me what I was going to be a part of,” he said.

Barefoot graduated early and immediately enlisted in the National Guard. He has now completed his Advanced Individual Training and plans to use his benefits from the National Guard to attend college.

Johnston County Director of Veterans Services Robert Boyette is a retired veteran with 30 years served in the Army. Raised in Johnston and Harnett counties, he entered the military at age 18.

For Boyette, Veterans Day is “an opportunity to celebrate, honor, and remember the sacrifices of the men and

women who have served so that we may enjoy our freedom and the benefits of our democracy.”

He is encouraged to see JROTC cadets taking up the torch as the next generation of veterans. “They’re carrying on a tradition,” he stated.

“I’m encouraged to know that young people care about our country.”

The online program was posted on the district’s Facebook and YouTube pages. Following the online celebration, all Johnston County veterans were invited to Smithfield-Selma High School for a curbside meal.

The campus was decorated with 50 American Flags, which were provided by the Rotary Club. In total, JCPS students and staff served nearly 600 meals to Johnston County veterans and their families.

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JCPS names principal and assistant principal of year Submitted by JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

T.J. Parrish, principal of Micro Elementary School, was selected as the 20212022 Principal of the Year for Johnston County Public Schools. Lyndsey Dunn, assistant principal of Riverwood Elementary School, was selected as the 2021-2022 Assistant Principal of the Year for Johnston County Public Schools.

Parrish and Dunn were surprised with the recognition in front of their families and JCPS staff on Tuesday, Oct. 19. Parrish was honored at a breakfast for JCPS principals, and Dunn was honored at her school.

Parrish has served as the principal of Micro Elementary since 2018. He began serving as the school’s assistant principal when Micro Elementary reopened during the 2016-2017 school year.

“Being acknowledged as Principal of the Year is special to me for many reasons.

This is home for me and I

42 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Johnston County Public Schools named T.J. Parrish, principal of Micro Elementary, as the district’s 2021-2022 Principal of the Year. From left are Johnston County Board of Education member Lynn Andrews, Parrish, Johnston County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Eric Bracy, and Johnston County Board of Education member Mike Wooten.

have had the opportunity to be a student, teacher, and a principal in this school system,” Parrish said. “I have had a great amount of support from my students, colleagues, and administration over the years. This accomplishment

goes to them too, particularly the students, because they are who I do it all for.”

Dunn has served as the assistant principal of Riverwood Elementary since 2018. “It is an honor to receive this award. To be

acknowledged among my peers and to have others think highly of my work is really special,” Dunn said. “Coming to work every day as a servant leader is so rewarding, and to be acknowledged for doing what I love to do is such an

honor.”

The Amy Renfrow Leadership Principal of the Year Award is named after former Corinth-Holders Elementary principal Amy Renfrow. The awards are given through the Johnston County Principal and Assistant Principal Association. Both Parrish and Dunn were nominated by their colleagues to receive the award.

Parrish is described as someone who is dedicated to both student learning and staff morale. He is known for working hard to address the specific needs of his students and their education.

Dunn is described as someone who has a selfless drive to put staff and students first in all that she does. Her colleagues stated that she leads with her heart and is vested in the needs of her students and

Johnston County Public Schools named Lyndsey Dunn, assistant principal of Riverwood Elementary, as the district’s 2021-2022 Assistant Principal of the Year. From left are Johnston County Board of Education member Lynn Andrews, Riverwood Elementary Principal Leigh White, Dunn and JCPS Superintendent Dr. Eric Bracy.

their families.

“Johnston County Public Schools is fortunate to have leaders like Mr. Parrish

and Mrs. Dunn,” said Superintendent Dr. Eric Bracy. “These individuals are dedicated to student

achievement and we are seeing the results of their hard work.

I am proud to have them on our team.”

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 43

Smithfield-Selma students conduct college fair Submitted by SMITHFIELD-SELMA HIGH SCHOOL

SMITHFIELD — Smithfield-Selma High School students conducted a college fair for the school Oct. 14. These students are part of the Advancement Via Individual Determination program.

Students from the Career and Technical Education program also participated.

The AVID program is designed to prepare high school students for the academic rigors of college. The CTE program helps prepare students for future careers by providing them with technical skills.

As a class project, AVID and CTE students researched a traditional college or trade school. The students then created a presentation to inform their peers about

the admission criteria, the programs offered and student life of the colleges.

One hundred forty AVID and 20 CTE students participated, creating and presenting displays of 68 colleges and universities, including 29 public and private colleges in North Carolina, 22 out-of-state colleges and 17 international colleges.

Melisa Putney, the Smithfield-Selma AVID Coordinator, said, “The AVID College and Career Fair is designed to promote the college going and future ready culture at SSS. This was an excellent experience for both our student presenters and the many classes that visited the fair.”

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Smithfield-Selma High School students, from left, Izabel Evans, Carlie Morris, Yasmin Carranza and Heidi Pena Esteban participated in a college fair held Oct. 14 by students in the Advancement by Individual Determination program.

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[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 45

Members of the South Johnston FFA chapter Food Science and Technology team are, from left, Adam Miller, Joshua Williams, adviser John Ross Robertson, Morgan Simpson and Kara Allen.

South Johnston wins honors at national FFA convention Submitted by SOUTH JOHNSTON FFA

FOUR OAKS — The South Johnston Future Farmers of America chapter won several awards recently at the national convention.

Adam Miller of the South Johnston FFA chapter was the second-highest scorer in the nation in Food Science and Technology.

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The Food Science and Technology team was top 10 in the country for the first time in school history with a seventh place national finish. Adam Miller and Morgan Simpson won gold individual awards, and Miller was the second-highest Members of the South Johnston FFA chapter Farm and Agribusiness Management team are, from left, Hannah Freeman, adviser Cindy Adams, Jackson Durham and Emily Pope.

Not pictured is Lanie Durham.

scoring individual in the nation. Kara Allen and Joshua Williams won silver individual awards. John Ross Robertson is team adviser.

The Agribusiness Management team won a silver team award and placed in the top 50% in the country. Jackson Durham won a gold individual award, Hannah Freeman won a silver individual award and Emily Pope and Lanie Durham won bronze individual awards.

Team advisor is Cindy Adams.

South Johnston chapter vice-president Chloe Sharpe represented North Carolina FFA as a national delegate.

The South Johnston chapter was recognized as a Three-Star FFA National Chapter. Only 3% of chapters across the country receive this award.

This is the second year in a row the South Johnston FFA chapter has won this award.

South Johnston FFA chapter members and advisers who participated in the national convention are, from left, adviser Cindy Adams, adviser Lakean Byrd, Kara Allen, Sarah Holloman, Savannah Price, Charlie "Davis" Renfrow, Gracie Moore, Adam Miller, Hannah Freeman, Jackson Durham, Emily Pope, Joshua Williams, Daisy Brown, Morgan Simpson, adviser John Ross Robertson and adviser Shelby Robertson.

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 47

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Smithfield native serves at Whidbey Island Submitted by NAVY OFFICE OF COMMUNITY OUTREACH

OAK HARBOR, Wash.

— Smithfield native Airman Tavis Wymer is serving with the U.S. Navy’s cuttingedge maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft squadron in Oak Harbor, Washington.

Wymer joined the Navy one year ago. Today, Wymer serves as an aviation electrician’s mate.

“I met a lot of people who inspired me to join the Navy,” Wymer said. “A lot of my senior mentors were prior Navy. I met a retired senior chief when I was in high school who helped to inspire me to stay in school, pursue my dreams and stay out of trouble.”

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Wymer serves with Maritime Patrol Squadron One, a high-tech maritime patrol and reconnaissance squadron tasked with monitoring the world’s oceans in the state-of-the-art P-8A Poseidon. He attended Smithfield-Selma High School and graduated in 2017. Today, Wymer uses skills and values similar to those found in Smithfield.

“I learned to always be humble and don’t be greedy,” Wymer said.

These lessons have helped Wymer while serving in the Navy supporting the P-8 Poseidon mission. The P-8 Poseidon mission is to conduct maritime patrol and reconnaissance as well as long-range anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and intelligence gathering

missions. They deploy around the globe to monitor the world’s oceans wherever they are needed.

The Poseidon, the Navy’s newest maritime, patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, is a replacement aircraft for the legacy P-3C Orion.

According to Navy officials, leveraging the experience and technology of the successful Orion with Airman Tavis Wymer the needs of the fleet, the Poseidon is designed to be combatduring capable, and to improve an their military service. “I’m operator’s ability to efficiently most proud of obtaining my conduct anti-submarine plane captain qualification,” warfare; anti-surface warfare; Wymer said. “I’m incurring and intelligence, surveillance training to become a plane and reconnaissance missions. captain and I’m just about to “The Navy is sea, land and test out. It’s a very prestigious air,” Wymer said. “We can qualification. I work directly protect what’s outside of our under the commanding coast and we can deploy to officer as an aircraft other coasts.” director. A plane captain is With more than 90% of responsible for recovering all trade traveling by sea, and launching an aircraft; and 95% of the world’s servicing and performing international phone and inspections; as well as internet traffic carried through reporting discrepancies with fiber optic cables lying on the the aircraft.” ocean floor, Navy officials As Wymer and other sailors continue to emphasize that continue to train and perform the prosperity and security of the missions to support the United States is directly national defense, they take linked to a strong and ready pride in serving their country Navy. in the United States Navy.

Wymer and other sailors “Serving in the Navy means have many opportunities to honoring both my family and achieve accomplishments country,” Wymer concluded.

STORY WALK FEATURES NEW BOOK Submitted by JOHNSTON COUNTY PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILDREN

SMITHFIELD — The newest book to be featured at the Partnership for Children Park Story Walk is “A Coat of Many Colors,” written by Dolly Parton and illustrated by Brooke Boynton-Hughes. In 1995, Dolly Parton launched the Imagination Library, a book giving program that makes reading readily accessible to children.

Registered children will receive one free book a month from the time they are born until they turn 5 years old, no matter the family’s income.

In 2020, the Imagination Library gifted its 150 millionth book. Registration is quick and can be done at the Partnership for Children of Johnston County or online at imaginationlibrary.org.

The first Story Walk in Johnston County is located at the Partnership for Children

Park at 600 M. Durwood Stephenson Highway.

First added to the park in December 2020, the story walk concept offers park goers the opportunity to enjoy some light physical exercise while reading stories along the path. Through this walk around the park, participants are guided through questions to ask their children, leading to meaningful family conversations and an easy start to early literacy.

Dolly Parton grew up in the rural Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, which highly influenced this story along with her song “Coat of Many Colors.” The book talks about the hardships that children often suffer when there is poverty in the family as she tells the story of a young girl whose mother sews her a coat out of rags once winter arrives.

Parton finds the light in the struggle as the main character eventually realizes that there was a lot of love sewn into the coat by her mother.

The Partnership for Children Story Walk now features “A Coat of Many Colors” by Dolly Parton. The book chronicles Parton’s childhood in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.

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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

NAMI Support Groups and Classes

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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, NC, 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. 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 service-minded individuals is very dedicated to community betterment in Clayton and Johnston County. Visit www.facebook.com/ClaytonMiddayRotary to learn more.

First and third Tuesdays, 6 p.m.

Smithfield Lions Club Mayflower Restaurant This group gathers for fellowship and business. The dinner is self-pay. The meeting and meal begins at 6 p.m. Come learn about the club and how we help 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 (CVA) is a nonprofit 501(3)c 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 York 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 CVA president, Bronwen Fullington at bronwen.fullington@gmail.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 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 Virtual via Zoom The Woman’s Club of Clayton (TWCC) 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).

Second Thursday, 6:30 p.m.

Johnston County Writers Group Virtual meeting via Zoom 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.

For more information, email facilitator Cindy Brookshire at jocowriters@gmail.com.

Every other Monday, 6 p.m.

Kiwanis Club of Clayton, N.C. Virtual meeting The Kiwanis Club of Clayton, N.C., 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 The Smithfield Chapter 990 meeting of the Vietnam Veterans of America is every third Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

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. We teach and encourage better apiculture methods and promote cooperation and sharing among beekeepers, homeowners and farmers. Our monthly meetings are free and open to everyone. For more information, visit www.jocobee.org or email JCBAPresident@jocobee.org.

Third Tuesday

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. There is no charge to join their group. Come and see what they’re all about. Call 919-965-3865 with any questions.

Third Tuesday

Johnston County African-American Caucus meeting The Johnston County African-American Caucus meets every third Tuesday of the month. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the meeting is a virtual one. Visit https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9216132965 to attend. The Meeting ID is 921 613 2965. For more information, email aacjcdp.info@gmail.com.

Third Thursday

Johnston County Republican Women meeting The Johnston County Republican Women (JCRW) meets on the third Thursday of each month (except in July and December). Our meeting location changes monthly. For more information email jcrwrocks@gmail.com.

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 Virtual meeting via Zoom Every Thursday morning, 70 service-minded people, representing all ages, genders and races meet. Learn more at www.claytonrotaryclub.org.

[ DECEMBER 2021 ] | 53

Every Thursday, 6:15 p.m.

Harbor

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.

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

Saturday, Dec. 4, 1 p.m.

Intro to Feeder Watch Howell Woods, Four Oaks Come learn about Feeder Watch, a citizen science project that collects data on winter birds. This will help participants identify winter species and collect data for researchers and scientists. Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. This program is for all ages, however, children must be accompanied by an adult. This program is $5/participant.

Please visit www.johnstoncc.edu/howellwoods to learn more.

54 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Tuesday, Dec. 14, 5 p.m.

Owl Safari Howell Woods, Four Oaks Join in on a search for the elusive Barred Owl. They will introduce raptors, visit the Birds of Prey exhibit, and then take a truck ride to search for these nocturnal creatures! Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. This program is for all ages, however, children must be accompanied by an adult. This program is $5/participant. Please visit www.johnstoncc.edu/howellwoods for more information.

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