March 2017

MARCH 2017 | Your Community. Your Neighbors. Your Story.

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“A Degenerated Hip Joint Sidelined Me

From Playing Football With My Grandson.

Thankfully, Johnston Health’s Joint Center And Rehab Got Me Back In The Game!”

Jimmy Marler & Grandson Payton Pine Level, NC

One of the main reasons Jimmy Marler retired was to have more time to enjoy activities with his grandson Payton. But when hip pain reached a level that he could no longer enjoy their routine of playing football, Jimmy turned to the experts at Johnston Health’s Joint Center.

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Hip replacement surgery and therapy at the Joint Center, followed by our Home Care support and therapy at our Rehab Center, got him back on his feet quickly, and back to his and Payton’s favorite pastime in just a few months.

For his full story, visit www.johnstonhealth.org.

Expert Care - Close To Home! www.johnstonhealth.org

CLAYTON

YOU’RE INVITED TO THE

Career in a Year

SHOWCASE March 21, 6 - 8 p.m.

Johnston Community College Tart Building Lobby

Join us to learn how JCC can help you get trained and get to work in a year or less.

• Meet instructors, advisors, and career services staff • Get information on admissions, applying for financial aid, and scholarships • Win great prizes!

http://www.johnstoncc.edu/rd/careerinayear MARCH 2017 | 3

16 MARCH 2017 | Your Community. Your Neighbors. Your Story.

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ON THE COVER

Matthew Baldwin lines up a shot at a recent Revolution practice.

Photo by Jamaal Porter/Massive Motives

4 | JOHNSTON NOW

CLAYTON GROUP SPARKS RUGBY BOOM IN JOHNSTON COUNTY

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YOUR J-NOW

TEAM Volume 1, Number 4

A Shandy Communications, LLC publication

Publisher Randy Capps

randy@johnstonnow.com

General Manager Shanna Capps

shanna@johnstonnow.com

Creative Consultant Ethan Capps

Johnston Community College basketball We catch up with the Jaguars, who returned to the court this season.

PAGE 6

PAGE 14

PAGES 8-9

PAGE 24

LIVING AN ADULT VERSION OF A CHILDHOOD DREAM CLAYTON AND BENTON CHAMBERS HAND OUT AWARDS

PAGES 10-11

NEWS FROM YOUR JOHNSTON COUNTY NEIGHBORS

PAGES 12-14

CLEVELAND AND SMITHFIELDSELMA CHAMBER AWARDS

Creative Director Frank Spurlock

SELMA ELEMENTARY CELEBRATES CHARACTER NEUSE CHARTER SCHOOL LANDS BRIGHT IDEAS GRANT

PAGE 26

YOU DON’T HAVE TO VISIT HOLLYWOOD TO ENJOY AWARDS

PAGES 30-31

J-NOW CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Editorial Consultant Mike Bollinger Interested in advertising? Send an email to shanna@johnstonnow.com or call 919-618-4405 Story idea or a photo to share?

Send an email to hello@johnstonnow.com or mail it to P.O. Box 58, Four Oaks, N.C., 27524

919-980-5522 www.johnstonnow.com Facebook.com/JohnstonNow Johnson 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. ©2017 Johnston Now. All rights reserved.

MARCH 2017 | 5

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Living an adult version of a childhood dream “Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans.”

I don’t know if John Lennon was the first to say that, but that’s where I heard it. And I think it’s spot on.

Since I was a senior in high school, I knew I wanted to write about sports. In those days, what I wanted most was to get a job covering a Major League Baseball team.

I dreamed of living out of a suitcase six months out of the year, piling up frequent flyer miles while I wrote brilliant pieces on the Orioles’ third baseman or whatever else might be the news of the day.

zillion Delta SkyMiles.

Illustrated.

So, I’ve never been a baseball beat writer. But, for this month at least, I am the publisher of a sports magazine.

What’s funny is that, until this month, I had never written a word about rugby or wheelchair basketball.

And until recently, I had never interviewed a chef or fitness instructor, either.

In this issue, you’ll find stories about the Clayton Rugby Football Club, called the Bootleggers, the Revolution, a wheelchair basketball team, and Johnston Community College’s men’s and women’s basketball programs.

Call it a scaled-down, less political version of Sports

In every edition, I try Randy Capps something new. It’s exciting randy@johnstonnow.com as a writer, and pretty much the opposite of what I would be doing in my old dream job.

Of course, somewhere along the way I figured out that dream isn’t compatible with family life. And I wouldn’t trade the bride and boy for a

I hope you enjoy J-Now’s foray into the sports world. Because, to paraphrase another famous Beatle, we don’t work at being ordinary.

FEBRUARY 2017 | Your Communit

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Clayton chamber hands out awards Submitted by the Clayton Chamber of Commerce Photos by Jamaal Porter/Massive Motives

The Clayton Chamber of Commerce held its 66th annual Installation and Awards Ceremony and gave out seven different awards.

Michelle Dominico-Frye, from River Dell Elementary School, earned the SuperStar Teacher of the Year award, while Medlin Office Supply’s Jennifer Lawrence was the Clayton Women in Networking award winner.

Hensley Scott took home the Rotary Community Service award and Todd Goodrich, of Triangle Insurance, was named Chamber Ambassador of the Year.

Melody Brown earned Volunteer of the Year honors for her help with “Squealin’ on the Square.”

Rob and Amy Baker, owners of A & E Trophy, won the Small Business of the Year award and John Long was honored as the Outstanding Citizen of the Year.

Hensley Scott

Jennifer Lawrence

Michelle Dominico-Frye

Rob and Amy Baker

8 | JOHNSTON NOW

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Melody Brown

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Benson chamber hands out honors at annual ceremony Submitted by the Benson Chamber of Commerce Photos by The (Dunn) Daily Record

The Benson Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards ceremony recently and honored several of its members.

Front row, left to right: DeVan Barbour, III, special recognition; Ken Tart, Citizen of the Year; Paul Dunn, Small Business Person of the Year; Katherine Hamlin representing Hamlin Industries, Large Business of the Year and Deborah Davis, Chamber Ambassador of the Year. Back row: Danny Medlin, Grimes Medlin, Bill Medlin, Business Family of the Year and Mike Denning, recipient of the Board of Directors Award.

Front row, left to right: Evelyn Aranda, Benson Area Women’s Organization Outstanding Woman; Diana Diaz, South Johnston Optimist Club Town of Benson Employee of the Year; Zachary Jacobs, American Legion Banner Post 109 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year; Ashton Thompson, Benson Area Women’s Organization Outstanding Youth and Martha Parrish, B.A.W.O. Senior Citizen of the Year. Back row: Wesley Bullock, American Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary Educator of the Year Award; Justin Sloan, Banner Post 109 Firefighter of the Year; Jaymes Elliott, Benson Junior Woman’s Club Arts Award; Terry Thompson, Benson Lions Club Volunteer of the Year and Keith Langdon, Benson Kiwanis Humanitarian of the Year.

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NEWS FROM YO Clayton High club raises $2,000 for Muscular Dystrophy Association

Submitted by Johnston County Schools Students in Clayton High’s DECA chapter, an association for marketing students, raised and donated $2,000 to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) recently.

The DECA chapter presented a check and several other items collected by students to Amber Toy, family care specialist for MDA Eastern Carolina, on Jan. 12.

The chapter’s community service effort began last March when they raised $300 by selling shamrocks during their annual MD campaign.

Following the fundraiser, DECA members and faculty participated in several activities to raise additional funds. The activities included participating in the Muscle Walk, a wristband sale, conducting a Miracle Minute, a bowling tournament and Zaxby’s teacher lunches.

The chapter also got other students at Clayton High involved in their fundraiser by conducting a “Fill a Stocking for MDA” project, where classes collected art supplies for children to use at the MDA summer camp this year.

DECA has been a long-time supporter and partner of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Together MDA and DECA work to help fund research to find treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy and other debilitating muscle diseases. They also help meet the special needs of young people and adults who suffer from debilitating muscle diseases.

DECA utilizes community service as a dynamic learning opportunity that supports classroom teaching, student achievement, and overall college and career readiness.

Smithfield-Selma Chamber hosts Academic Achievers Luncheon Photo by Smithfield-Selma Chamber

SMITHFIELD — Thirty Johnston County high school juniors were honored at the Smithfield-Selma Chamber of Commerce Academic Achievers luncheon at the Country Club of Johnston County on Monday, Feb. 6.

The students from Smithfield-Selma High School, Johnston County Early College Academy, Johnston County Middle College and Neuse Charter School were chosen for the honor based on their grade-point averages and class size.

The students enjoyed a catered lunch by Outback Steakhouse, and then had a chance to participate in round table discussions with invited area professionals in fields including law, engineering, business, medicine and commmunications.

J.H. Langdon, a former member of the North Carolina State House of Representatives, was the guest speaker, and each of the students received a certificate.

One more from the snow Photo by Mara Benson We had a snow picture left over from the February issue. This is Layla Benson with her Mema, Susan, in Four Oaks during Layla’s first sledding trip.

Students from the Clayton High DECA chapter present Amber Toy, family care specialist for MDA Eastern Carolina, with a check for $2,000 as well as items collected by students. Pictured are: Left to right, Davis Lanier, Taylor Bowman, Amber Toy, Kelli Carver, Chelsey Wansley, Hannah Ziegler and Maya Kelly.

10 | JOHNSTON NOW

OUR NEIGHBORS Johnston County Industries program JCC accepts Bellwether takes in DPAC show Finalist Award Submitted by JCI

On December 3, Johnston County Industries’ Community Integration program participants and their families had the opportunity to attend a showing of Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” at the Durham Performing Arts Center.

This box office breaking Broadway musical was presented in a special sensory-friendly performance that was tolerant and supportive for children and adults on the autism spectrum.

The performance featured the hit songs. “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” from the original animated television special. Individuals in attendance were able to sing along and participate in the interactive aspects of the show. The spectacular set designs and costumes were vivid, whimsical and reminiscent of the beloved children’s book.

Following the performance, individuals and their families enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch at Golden Corral filled with all types of meats, sides and desserts.

This group social between the Johnston and Harnett locations was a wonderful day of fellowship and fun.

Submitted by JCC

Johnston Community College proudly accepted its 2017 Bellwether finalist award in January at the Community College Futures Assembly in Orlando.

JCC was one of 10 community colleges in the nation selected as a finalist in the planning, governance and finance category. JCC was selected for its “One College” organizational philosophy for student success.

Even though JCC did not win the category, JCC president David Johnson said he is proud of the College’s commitment to student success which led to the recognition.

“We were so privileged to be a part of the 2017 Community College Futures Assembly as a Bellwether Award finalist,” he said. “This independent policy think-tank is one of the premier organizations in the United States which recognizes and promotes effective college programs.

“JCC was honored to be selected from hundreds of applications as a Bellwether finalist for our One College philosophy. I was extremely proud of our team of presenters as they represented the entire institution’s work to fulfill student success.”

Unique Gifts

By Jacquelynn opens in Clayton Submitted by Clayton Chamber of Commerce The Clayton Chamber had a ribbon cutting for a new downtown business, Unique Gifts By Jacquelynn, recently. The business, owned and operated by Jacquelynn Richardson, is located at 325 East Main Street in Clayton.

MARCH 2017 | 11

Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce holds annual awards banquet Submitted by the Greater Cleveland Chamber Photos by Jamaal Porter/Massive Motives

GARNER — The Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 19th annual awards banquet recently at the Hall and Gardens at Landmark.

The honorees included: Dr. Ryan Williams, 2016 Man of the Year — Williams is the owner of Crossroads Wellness and Rehab, located at McGee’s Crossroads since 2006.

He has also served on the Greater Cleveland Chamber Board of Directors.

Williams lives in the Cleveland area with his wife, Jennifer, and his daughter Bentley.

Suzanne Wiley, 2016 Woman of the Year — Wiley is a financial advisor with Edward Jones. At the firm, she is focused on people and became a firm-wide leader in client satisfaction.

She is also known as a woman who deeply wants others to succeed and is immediately recognizable for her ever-present smile that greets people as they walk in the door.

Kristy Myers, 2016 Teacher of the Year — Myers teaches at Cleveland Middle School and has consistently excelled in motivating and advancing the academic success of her students. She uses a variety of teaching techniques and individualizes all of her lessons based on each student’s abilities. She’s also the lead teacher for the Exceptional Children’s Department at the school.

Kurt Woods, 2016 Volunteer of the Year — Woods served in the Army for 12 years and now owns his own financial company, Integrity Financial.

He is busy with volunteer work through the Baptist Men Association, With Love from Jesus, serving as a local coordinator for a student exchange program, helping his son organize food drives and multiple projects with Hocutt Baptist Church.

12 | JOHNSTON NOW

He was also a previous board member on the Greater Cleveland Board of Directors.

Greater Cleveland Athletic Association, 2016 Nonprofit of the Year — The GCAA is a 501c3 non-profit organization that serves the youth of the Cleveland and surrounding communities by organizing and running five youth sports. These sports include baseball, basketball, softball, volleyball and soccer.

Petal Florist & More, 2016 Business of the Year — Located on N.C. 42 in the heart of the Cleveland community is this flower shop owned by Debra Celestin. Celestin began working at a friend’s floral shop at age 15 and has continued her passion since. She loves doing weddings and adding her special touch to any floral arrangement.

Grow With Us “Serving as the voice of business while enhancing community life and growth in the Cleveland Township and surrounding areas.”

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Smithfield-Selma Chamber honors distinguished citizens at annual meeting Submitted by the Smithfield-Selma Chamber of Commerce

SMITHFIELD — The Greater Smithfield-Selma Area Chamber of Commerce wrapped up 2016 at its 47th Annual Meeting recently.

It included a farewell bid to its president of 30 years, Rick Childrey, recognition of members who earned special honors and a passing of the gavel from past board chair, Dr. Dwight Morris, executive director of the Johnston County Partnership for Children, to the new chair, Corina Knott, Senior Account Executive with Interstate Outdoor, Inc. Knott expressed excitement about leading the charge to “Connect, Grow and Prosper,” the chamber’s new mission-driven slogan.

Childrey was presented with gifts and “roasted” after the meeting kicked off with a reception in his honor.

Other award winners were: Johna Faulconer — Howard Best award for outstanding contributions to the work of the Board of Directors.

Chris Collins — Ambassador of the Year, for his time and commitment to help other chamber members recognize and take full advantage of their member benefits.

Tara Dunn and Bob Hinnant — Jimmy Creech Small Business Persons of the Year award, for success, longevity and commitment to the community.

Crystal Kimpson Roberts — Athena Award for achieving excellence in her field of work and for reaching out and opening a way for others.

Jessica Davis — Citizen of the Year, for bringing her vision of creating the Junior Women’s League of Smithfield to fruition.

Eric Brownlee and Cheryl Oliver — Distinguished Citizen honorees, for their unwavering dedication and service to the communities they serve.

Leo Daughtry, Linwood Parker, and Durwood Stephenson — Bonsai Award for Vision and Courage in their continuous commitment to positive economic growth in Johnston County.

Life Memberships were awarded to Rick Childrey, Bruce Edwards, Becky Guin, Carl Lamm, Jullian Marshall, Dicky Parrish, Pat Proctor and Donald Wallace.

Front row: Left to right, Bob Hinnant, Crystal Roberts, Cheryl Oliver, Jessica Davis, Carl Lamm and Julian Marshall. Back row, Tara Dunn, Eric Brownlee, Chris Collins, Durwood Stephenson, Dwight Morris, Linwood Parker and Johna Faulconer.

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Selma Elementary celebrates character Submitted by Johnston County Schools

Selma Elementary proudly celebrated its students who demonstrate exceptional character during the school’s semiannual Character Trait Reception in January.

At the ceremony, students were reminded to work hard, try their best and to never let anyone underestimate their abilities to do great things by special guest speaker, Nicole Hardy, a sophomore at Smithfield-Selma High.

Students who were recognized were presented with certificates. The Selma Lions Club sponsored a special ice cream social for students who had been nominated between the months of September and January for exhibiting the character traits of respect, perseverance, responsibility, compassion and dependability.

Students from each grade level are nominated by their teachers each month for displaying that month’s focus character trait.

Selma Elementary administration and staff promote, encourage and model good character for their students, and say they’re proud to see students exhibit these characteristics each day.

Students who were recognized were: Front row, left to right, Yair Rodriguez, Kenaysha Gonzalez Jijon, Jamear Wilson, Lauryn Staggers, Julian Castillo, Carlos Martinez, Jorge Martinez, Angel Trejo and Delaney Villeda. Middle row: Lisset Castro, Naara Castro, Gabriela Andrade Cruz, Anthony Andrade Cruz and Arleath Arreaga. Back row: Nicole Hardy, Marisela Martinez Trejo, Stephanie Guerrero, Berenice Ramirez, Ashley Cruz, Edom Smith, Tristan Robertson, Yeiraliz Solivan Soto, Yesenia Morales-Martin, Bryson Haynes, Marcelo Pena and Jonathan Martinez.

MARCH 2017 | 15

Clayton-based foundation helps get kids in the game

By Randy Capps

Members of the team take a break after a recent tournament. Front row, left to right, are: Lauren Wells, Christopher Kammerer, Braxton Barefoot and Alyssa Lynch. Second row: Kylei Gartin, Timothy Allen, Omar Sanchez, Matthew Baldwin, Jason Vaquis and coach Billy Gartin.

Photo submitted by Richard Lynch

CLAYTON — It’s an ordinary Sunday inside the Clayton Community Center’s gymnasium.

Sunlight streams in from the windows, and a men’s pickup game is happening on one side of the gym.

On the other side of the dividing curtain, there’s a practice going on.

Cones are spread out in various places along the floor, and coach Billy Gartin, ball in hand, is calling out instructions from the middle of the floor.

“Come on Omar,” Billy shouts. “Make that turn!”

The cones are in place so that the players have to weave in and around them, before doubling back and making a layup. It’s a tough drill. It seems turning a wheelchair that sharply can be tricky.

The Revolution, a youth wheelchair basketball team based in Clayton, is three years old. It was started by Richard Lynch, the founder and president of Revolution Adaptive Sports Inc. That company is a 501c3 nonprofit that raises money for the team’s equipment and travel to tournaments both locally and around the southeast as part of the National Wheelchair Basketball Association.

The program is for children ages 5-18 who have a lower extremity disability, like Spina Bifida, paralysis or amputation.

Lynch’s daughter, Alyssa, started playing wheelchair ball in Raleigh. But Lynch saw a need to bring that opportunity a little closer to home.

“My daughter had played on the Raleigh team for a few years,” he said. “Two or three of the members lived in Johnston County and we found an interest of a few more people in playing in Johnston County. … So we started our own team down here.”

The Revolution started with a handful of players, and now has around 10 players on the roster.

“I needed to have a place where other children could have the same

16 | JOHNSTON NOW

opportunity that mine had,” he said of growing the sport in Johnston County. “It’s not only a basketball team, it’s a confidence builder for these kids. To find a place they belong, to find something they’re good at, it carries out into their school life, into their church life and into their family life.

“My daughter grew up overnight when she started playing wheelchair ball. It’s my passion to get as many kids (as I can) traveling the same road that she did.”

One of the requirements for that path is a chair. The chairs, made especially for wheelchair ball, start at around $2,000. Revolution Adaptive Sports has bought five of them for team use in the last three years.

“Most of the families are pretty strapped already with the medical situations with their kids,” he said. “We raise money as a foundation and we buy these chairs to loan to the players. The last thing I want is for a kid to want to play and us not have a chair for them.”

When he isn’t using a portable air pump to keep the balls inflated properly, Lynch works part-time for Wake County Schools transporting children with special needs and serves as president of the athletic booster club at Neuse Charter School.

It’s a hectic schedule, but he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I really enjoy doing this,” he said. “It’s a lot of work behind the scenes, setting up tournaments and things like that. But it’s a labor of love. It really is.”

Omar Sanchez waits for his turn to do a drill at practice.

Photos by Jamaal Porter/Massive Motives

Coach Billy Gartin lets the team know how long the next drill will be.

MARCH 2017 | 17

Alyssa Lynch gets ready to shoot at a recent practice at the Clayton Community Center.

Gartin, a retired Marine and Raleigh police officer, also coaches his son’s team in McGee’s Crossroads. His goals don’t change from one group of kids to the other.

“I just like to come out here and have fun,” he said. “It’s my No. 1 goal that we work hard, learn some life lessons and have some fun. These kids work hard to be involved in a sport — an organized team sport at that.

“My little girl’s on the team and she had asked for years to get involved in some type of organized team sport. Basketball was the choice. We found out about the organization and we signed up.”

As fate would have it, soon after the Gartins joined up, the program found itself in need of a new coach.

Gartin threw himself into learning the ins and outs of the wheelchair game, and found that the games are relatively similar.

“The rules are almost identical, with the exception of the amount of time you can propel the chair and dribble” he said. “The contact fouls are almost identical. I would say these kids have a harder time trying to get up and down the court. They probably work harder than kids playing in a (typical) league.

“They needed a coach, and I said, ‘why not,’” he said. “Not knowing a lot about wheelchair basketball (at the time), I know hustle. And these kids work hard. You can’t put a price on seeing the satisfaction on their face when they get out here and compete. To me it’s worth its weight in gold.”

For more on Revolution Adaptive Sports, or to make a donation, contact Lynch at revolutionadaptivesports@gmail.com.

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MARCH 2017 | 19

The Bootleggers line up for a kickoff against Southern Pines last month.

Photos by Jamaal Porter/Massive Motives

By Randy Capps

CLAYTON — Bright sunshine beamed down from a Carolina blue sky in Clayton on a February afternoon.

A mile down the road, there were a couple of youth soccer matches underway and the dog park was filling up fast.

Across the street at East Clayton Community Park, there was an adult pickup soccer game going on, too.

Not far away, a very different game was kicking off.

The Clayton Bootleggers, clad in yellow and black kits (uniforms) adorned with a Deep River Brewing Company logo, were taking on Southern Pines RFC in a rugby match.

Southern Pines had its own set of sponsors on its green

20 | JOHNSTON NOW

Clayton’s Nick Taylor gets a boost as he reaches for a lineout.

jerseys, but for a few minutes near the end of the first half, the only color that mattered was red.

That was for the blood escaping from Clayton’s Travis Morrison’s broken nose as he lay prone on the far sideline.

“Medic,” was the shout raised by his teammates as they reached for the water bottles. Before the trainers could reach him, however, one of the Southern Pines players decided to lend a hand.

“All of a sudden, I saw a guy in a green shirt standing over me,” Morrison said later. “I thought, ‘what are you doing?’ Then the guy said, ‘I’m a doctor. Hold still.’ And he set it back (in place).”

He said all of that with a smile that only a rugby player could have five minutes after having his face driven into the dirt.

It seems one of the most popular sports in the world has a home right here in Johnston County.

The Clayton Rugby Football Club was founded in late 2013 by the same folks that were coaching in the Clayton Copperheads Youth Rugby program that began a year earlier.

Practice began the following spring with seven players, and as the calendar flipped to 2017, that number has swelled to more than 60. There are roughly 150 players involved in the separate Copperheads youth program.

Travis Morrison takes a break after suffering an injury.

“It took a while to get going,” club president Ted Hardy said. “But once we started rolling, it took off really fast.”

The club fields three different sides, a competitive team, a beginner team and an “Old Boys” team for those 35 and older.

The competitive team has already been promoted a level, and according to USA Rugby, the organization is the fifth-fastest growing club in America.

So, what makes Eastern North Carolina, and specifically Johnston County, such fertile ground for the sport?

“I think there are a few reasons,” Hardy said. “I think North Carolina in general is the next rugby hotbed. … It’s a combination of the climate.

There’s moderate weather here for most of the year. We get a longer playing season here. And the diversity, especially here in the Triangle, lends itself well to growing rugby.

The teams prepare for a scrum.

“It’s the second-most played sport in the world, and we get a lot of people here, international folks that come from other countries that are already familiar with the sport. So, when they come over for work with their kids or whatever, they seem to buy in.”

There are some misconceptions about the sport that hinder its growth in some places. Like soccer, it’s not always known for being the most family friendly game to watch or play. But at the Clayton Rugby Football Club, family is at the heart of the club’s mission.

The sidelines were dotted with wives and children, packed together in camping chairs. Some even brought their pets along for the fun.

“We focus on these real traditional kind of family values,” Hardy said.

“Respect. Sportsmanship. Integrity. There’s a big focus on those things in rugby, and it lends well to the sort of family values we have here in Johnston County.

“We spend a lot of time focusing on family. We get everybody’s wives and their kids — they’re all welcome around the club. Speaking from experience, I’m originally from Ohio, the club I played for up there was not a wives and kids kind of club. It wasn’t a real inclusive kind of environment, so we’ve kind of gone in the other direction. We prefer to

Nick Taylor gets ready to throw the ball back into play.

MARCH 2017 | 21

Clayton’s Jonathan Sanyer goes up for the ball. Bottom, Clayton’s Ted Chapman tries to make a tackle on a Southern Pines player.

get them involved, and it makes a big difference.

“Because the wives let the men play.”

In addition, the club also runs as a family in its own right.

“On top of it all, what I think keeps people coming back is the camaraderie,” Hardy said. “That kind of family aspect. The guys you play rugby with end up being like family. We have dinners together, our kids play together. That’s what keeps guys coming back, even after they get some bumps and bruises.”

Morrison, after being subbed out, sat in the bleachers with cotton in both nostrils. His nose was swollen, but it was hard to notice anything except his ear-to-ear grin.

The atmosphere is one thing, but the rush of taking the field is another.

Getting to make the occasional tackle is pretty fun, too.

“It’s a great stress relief, especially for adult players,” Hardy said. “We’ve got families, we’ve got jobs. We’ve got a lot of stress in our lives. It’s not easy to keep active as far as fitness goes. It’s a good way to get out, get some fitness in and let off some steam.”

Another common rugby myth is that it’s similar to football. But Hardy suggests a different comparison.

“People like to say that it’s football without pads, but in reality, it’s more like basketball,” he said. “You play offense, you play defense. Everybody gets the ball, and everybody can score.

“It requires all of those skills. You need to be able to pass the ball, catch the ball and run the ball. People that come to the sport that have never played before, that’s what really catches them.”

A topic of conversation in youth sports these days is safety, particularly with head injuries. The NFL is trying to address the issue with its “Heads Up” program, while some youth soccer organizations are banning headers for its younger players.

USA Rugby takes it seriously, too. But Hardy believes that the sport isn’t any more dangerous than any other.

“It gets a bad rap,” Hardy said. “Having played football, when you’re not wearing all that armor, you start thinking about where you put your head.

“There’s a big emphasis, especially at the youth level, about teaching proper tackling technique. Head to the side, so you’re taking your head out of the tackle.”

In addition, the strike zone for tackles used to be the shoulder and below.

Now, it’s under the armpit. Anything higher is an automatic penalty.

With a growing membership and a successful youth club breeding potential new players, the club is committed to growing the sport even more in Johnston County.

“We’ve been searching for some land to develop into a rugby facility, and this spring we started talking with the Town of Wilson’s Mills,” Hardy said. “They’ve got a community park project they’re about to break ground on. Part of the park is going to be playgrounds and basketball courts, things like that. On the rest of it, we’re going to put in fields.

“So, we’ll have a permanent home for rugby in Johnston County, and the town gets extra recreational space.”

The facility, scheduled to open next year, will allow the club to host more and bigger tournaments.

And even more chances for Morrison and the Bootleggers to take the field.

For more info on the Clayton Rugby Football Club, visit ClaytonRFC.com.

22 | JOHNSTON NOW

Rugby 101

So, you want to watch rugby? Here’s what you need to know: The object of the game: Advance the ball into your opponent’s end zone, and literally touch the ball down on the ground. That’s where the term “touchdown” in football comes from, by the way. When you do that, it’s called a “try” and it’s worth five points. Like in football, a try is followed by a “conversion,” which is a kick through the goal posts. A successful one is worth two points. Penalty kicks can be attempted after fouls (if you’re close enough to your opponent’s end zone), and a made one is worth three points.

Basics: Teams advance the ball by running, or by tossing or handing the ball laterally or backwards. There are no forward passes and no blocking.

Teams can also kick the ball away from their own end zone, in an effort to relieve pressure.

Tackling: Teams can tackle opposing ball carriers from under the armpit down. When tackled, players have about a second to release the ball into what is called a “ruck.” This is a large group of players from both teams that try to pick up the ball. The tackled player gets to roll the ball back towards his teammates, which usually results in his team retaining possession. Players are allowed to try to strip the ball away from the runner.

Penalties: The most common are for high tackles, leaving feet in ruck and offside. A severe penalty may result in a yellow card, at which time the player spends 10 minutes in the “sin bin” while his team plays a man down.

Restarts: When the ball goes out of bounds, there’s a “lineout.” The teams line up side by side, with the advantage to the team throwing the ball in. That’s where you’ll see players lifted in the air in an attempt to retain possession. Like in football, kickoffs happen at the start of the match, after halftime and any time there’s a score. In Rugby Union (see below), the team that is scored on kicks off, whereas in Sevens, the team that scores kicks off.

Rugby Unions vs. Sevens: Rugby Union is 15-on-15, with 40-minute halves. Sevens is 7-on-7, with seven-minute halves. It’s also the version played in the Olympics, and the one most likely to be seen on TV. “Sevens is absolutely exhausting,” Clayton Rugby Football Club president Ted Hardy said. “Because you’re still playing on the same size field with half as many players. It’s meant for the speed-type players. With less players and more space to exploit, you want guys that can get at it.”

Clayton Rugby Football Club donates books to library Submitted by the Town of Clayton

CLAYTON — In their latest push to spread the joy of rugby in our area, several Clayton Rugby Football Club players dropped by Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library recently to donate a selection of books about the sport to its collection.

The books range from “R is for Rugby” — which teaches children about the sport along with their ABCs — up to more advanced texts such as “Think Rugby” and “Rugby Revealed,” which cover strategy and techniques for serious players and coaches.

The Clayton Rugby Football Club — dubbed the “Bootleggers” in a nod to our area’s history with less-than-legal liquor production — was founded by Ted Hardy in the fall of 2013 as an independent men’s team. It was a first for Johnston County, and the club has since expanded rapidly to include 250 to 300 men and women, boys and girls, ages 6 to about 55.

“Those numbers are extraordinary for anywhere in the U.S., let alone in a small area like Clayton,” Hardy said. “We’ve found people here have been real accepting of the sport.”

In addition to Hardy, club members Simon Potter, Leo Sevilla, Jason Niemiller and Walter Webster, along with Hardy’s kids (and fellow rugby enthusiasts), 16-year-old Emma and 10-year-old Colin, visited the library to drop off their donation.

While he was there, Niemiller took the time to apply for a library card.

Hardy also thanked the library staff for working with the club and jumping at the opportunity to add some rugby books to the collection.

“From the first question I asked about giving books, they were all in and on it,” he said. “We’re keeping our eyes out trying to find some more and, if we come across some, we’ll hand them off as well.”

Hardy added that the club would like to see its relationship with the library continue to grow.

“We’re all about working in the community and we love doing stuff like this, so this is a great relationship for us to have,” he said. “We’re already talking about setting up some reading events where we come in and read some books for kids.”

MARCH 2017 | 23

Neuse Charter School lands Bright Ideas grant for ‘Wizard of Oz’ Submitted by Shannon Mann SMITHFIELD — While most teachers really wish for a pot of gold somewhere over the rainbow, a few clever Neuse Charter School teachers found exactly that when they recently earned a Wake Electric Bright Ideas Grant for their musical production of “The Wizard of Oz.” Jamie White, Jessica Brank and Leah Williams, drama, music and band teachers, wrote a grant proposal at the start of the school year entitled, “A STEAM Powered Oz Expedition.” The proposal demonstrated how the performing arts could be paired with science and technology to benefit students in grades 3-12.

Williams, the elementary music and middle school band teacher, explained that the proposal aligned with many principles found in the Wizard of Oz story.

“Each character in the story believes that the Wizard of Oz holds the key to what they desire,” Williams said.

“Our students’ desire to make this show a success by working together to make tough decisions, learning life skills and discovering a new Neuse Charter School students rehearse in late January for the school’s musical production of world of knowledge.” the Wizard of Oz. The school received a Bright Ideas Grant from Wake Electric for the musical Williams demonstrated the concept being presented on April 6 at Johnston Community College’s Paul A. Johnston Auditorium.

This was the first time the Bright Ideas grant has been given to a school musical. by explaining that the Cowardly Lion asks the Wizard for courage Submitted photo and nerve. Neuse Charter thespians will demonstrate courage through their work than 20 years. Two million students have is still needed to help it reach its full potential. on-stage and behind-the-scenes. participated in 9,800 Bright Ideas projects “We’re thrilled to be able to perform our “Courage is something they need in a global with more than $10.2 million given out. program at Johnston County Community society,” Williams explained.

Representatives at Wake Electric say that while College’s Paul A. Johnston Auditorium on grant money has funded instruments in the Each of the lessons in the famous story paired April 6,” said Williams. “Our students really past, this is the first time a grant has been with what students would learn as they want to see a full house that night. They’ve awarded for a musical production. rehearsed and worked together over a threeworked so hard to bring this show to life and month period.

Williams was excited that the Neuse Charter incorporate the lessons of the grant. They proposal was fully funded.

The grant monies want the entire community to see what they’ve “We have 70 students participating in this received help secure the show kit, supplies for learned and achieved. Ultimately, just like musical,” said Williams. “Students are asking the set and a few costumes.

Dorothy wants to go home, our production is questions, researching, collaborating and for our home…our community.” giving feedback in order to figure out the best “We were also able to purchase 20 “The solutions for the show.”

Wonderful World of Oz” books for our school Tickets are $10 at the box office and $11 library,” said Williams. online. More information can be found at: The grant, which is sponsored by North www.johnstoncc.edu/performingarts/ticketCarolina’s electric cooperatives, has funded While the grant goes a long way in helping the information.aspx. education grants to K-12 teachers for more school produce the show, community support

24 | JOHNSTON NOW

MARCH 2017 | 25

Basketball in our back yard

By Randy Capps

SMITHFIELD — March usually brings with it the onset of spring, and it always brings college basketball in abundance.

In this part of the world, “March Madness” starts with the ACC Tournament and doesn’t stop until someone cuts a net down during the NCAA national championship game.

There are plenty of Tar Heels, Blue Devils and members of the Wolfpack hoping for success for their teams in postseason play.

But there’s another brand of college basketball far

closer to home — and you don’t have to brave I-40 to see the action in person.

Johnston Community College fielded a women’s basketball team for the first time in school history this past season, and the men’s program was also restarted after a three-year hiatus.

Starting a pair of basketball programs from the ground up has been a challenge, but it’s one that excites director of athletics Derrick Arnold.

“We’ve learned a lot,” he said. “We’re moving right along and we feel comfortable about our foundation. It’s just a matter now of continuing to move forward and improving upon what we’ve learned from this past semester.”

An unexpected hurdle came when the initial choice to lead the women’s team resigned on the day of the season opener. That’s when Josefvon Jones, an academic counselor at the college, decided to take the reins of the program.

“I love the game of basketball,” he said. “I still work as the academic coordinator of the athletic program. … I had to step up.”

While he enjoys the game, it’s clear that academics mean even more to him.

“One thing is you have to be able to balance and manage your time,” Jones said.

“We consider athletics an extracurricular activity. Those students who participate in athletics have to go the extra mile. Practice, managing the academics and staying eligible. Because the minute they go below 12 credit hours, they are no longer eligible to participate.

“So we hammer that home. It’s important to us, because not only do we want to win on the court, we want to win in the classroom.”

Men’s coach Jason Johnson had a little more time to build his first team at JCC, but not much. He was hired on March 1 of last year, which gave him a little more than three months to recruit his first group of Jaguars.

Still, the appeal of running his own program was strong.

“As an assistant coach, we all want to run our own program,” he said. “To not only

The Jaguars stretch before taking on North Carolina’s junior varsity team at the Dean E. Smith Center in Chapel Hill.

Photos by Dustin Gurley 26 | JOHNSTON NOW

run my own program, but to build one from scratch, that to me was the most exciting thing.

“From a recruiting standpoint, we’re 30 minutes from Raleigh. We’re 40 minutes from Fayetteville. We’re not that far from Greenville, so we get some Down East kids. It’s right in the middle of some very fertile recruiting ground.

“My hair was on fire a little bit. Sometimes, I didn’t see my family that much. But I’m better for it, and I enjoyed it.”

His experience working as an assistant with Methodist University in Fayetteville meant that he had an extensive list of phone numbers for area high school coaches.

“I had them and I called them all,” Johnson said. “But this is not a hard place to sell. You can ask my guys, I don’t talk a lot in recruiting about basketball. I saw (a recruit) last night, and I told him, ‘I’m not going to talk to you a lot about basketball, but you’re going to get a high quality education at Johnston Community College. We’re going to get you a degree. Now, basketball is going to be hard work, but you’re going to take care of that.’”

Starting junior college basketball programs from scratch isn’t easy, and both the men’s and women’s teams struggled at times during their inaugural seasons.

But it’s only one brick in what the school hopes will become a strong foundation.

“This year has definitely been a learning year,” Jones said. “Not only for the coaching staff, but for those young ladies out there playing. They’ve taken their bumps and bruises, but what we tell them in the locker room and during games is that through adversity you can find out a lot about yourself.

“I use the game of basketball to teach them about the game of life. You’re not going to win everything you attempt. You’re going to lose, but the main lesson to learn is to never give up.”

The same was true for Johnson’s squad.

Johnston Community College had a chance to play North Carolina’s JV team on Jan. 12 at the Smith Center.

The Tar Heels came away with an 87-62 victory.

MARCH 2017 | 27

“Our young men realize that this is not high school,” he said. “Other than Tymell Blue, who’s probably our best player, we really didn’t have anyone who had experience playing college basketball and all that entails.

“Obviously, as a competitor, I’d love to be undefeated right now. But we played a very tough schedule. I’ll put our schedule up against anybody in America. The bumps and bruises we’re taking right now will prepare us to be able to hand out some bumps and bruises down the line.”

As a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association’s Region X, both teams have faced nationally ranked opponents this season.

The women played at club level this past season, but will be a full NJCAA member next year in Region X’s Division II. That means that the team will be able to offer scholarships.

The men played in Division III, which is the non-scholarship level. Arnold says that the team will play in that division again next winter with an eye on moving up to Division II for the 2018-2019 season.

Although the school plans to hire a new women’s basketball coach in the coming weeks, Jones is excited about the program’s future and its commitment to producing good basketball players — and even better people.

“That’s our main goal here,” he said. “It’s creating students and citizens that are going to be productive in society. Basketball and athletics are a vehicle to getting an education, and we want to be able to provide you with something when you leave us that’s going to be with you the rest of your life.”

Johnson will welcome back Kisheem Faison (Goldsboro High) and Loris Lawson (Raleigh Wakefield), among others, to next year’s team.

And after having only eight players on his first roster, he’s already on the lookout for the next class of Jaguars.

“First, if you come to JCC, you’re going to get a great education,” he said. “Second, we’re going to play an exciting brand of basketball that will prepare you to play at the four-year level. I always heard Skip Prosser, former Wake Forest coach, say that you have to recruit like a spider web. You start in, and then you work your way out. In order to be successful, you’ve got to win at home.

“We want to win what we call ‘Jaguar Nation,’ which is Johnston County, Harnett County, Wilson, Wayne and then work out from there.

And with me being from Fayetteville and having those connections, we’re going to recruit that area pretty hard.”

The team played its home games at the

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Smithfield Recreation and Aquatics Center (SRAC) and held practices at Johnston County schools. Deacon Jones Auto Group has also been generous in its support for the school.

It’s that sort of community partnership that Arnold believes will help the programs flourish.

“We’re just really excited about the future of what we’re creating here at JCC,” Arnold said. “We reached out to the community and they’ve done a good job with us, bringing us on board and embracing us as we embark on this journey of increasing and improving our athletics here at JCC. “We want to be the melting pot for the community. When we have a basketball game or an activity, come on out and support us.”

For more information, log on to www. jccjaguarpride.com.

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Shanna Says

You don’t have to visit Hollywood to enjoy awards season Awards season is a blast. I enjoy watching the Oscars, Emmys and Grammys where you get to see celebrities honored for exhibiting their talent (or sometimes for just being the most popular).

I camp out in front of the television two hours early to see the red carpet arrivals.

The glitz of the designer dresses, jewels and styles mesmerizes me. It’s fascinating to listen to the acceptance speeches, when you get to hear a celebrity’s true feelings without being filtered by a publicist. I especially get tickled when they slip up and say things that would make their publicity team cringe.

But, none of the stars in Hollywood and beyond shine nearly as brightly as the unsung heroes right here in Johnston County that do so much to make a difference.

We are absolutely delighted to share the photos of your neighbors and friends being honored for their passion and dedication to our community.

Thank you to the many partners who submitted these photos so that we can give these exemplary citizens the credit they have earned.

If I’m being honest, I get a little nervous attending banquets.

You see, many years ago, I was an award winner at a chamber of commerce banquet in Shelby.

A hypnotist was the entertainment, and I was one of the unlucky people called up on stage to participate in the show. I’m not typically shy, but this was outside of my comfort zone.

Rumor has it, I clucked like a chicken, solved problems Lucille Ball style, danced the hula and competed in a beauty pageant while under the hypnotist’s influence.

At the end of the performance, I’m guessing the hypnotist said some magic words, and the participants all came back to reality. Then, I could remember everything as if it had been a

dream or a movie, and it seemed that I watched my actions as a bystander.

It was hilarious, embarrassing and the talk of the town.

While I was flattered Shanna Capps to be honored with an shanna@johnstonnow.com award that night, most of my community found the rumor of my on-stage antics much more interesting. And I can’t blame them.

I am, however, very grateful this occurred before the age of digital cameras and social media.

Thankfully, the award winners featured in this edition of J-Now weren’t required to cluck, hula or pageant wave — but they sure are worthy of applause.

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MARCH 2017 | 29

Every Monday, 6-8 p.m. and Friday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Angels on a Mission Food Pantry Lighthouse Christian Fellowship, 9856 Hwy 210, Four Oaks. This organization helps feed families in need in Johnston County. It is also in need of volunteers. For more information, contact John Jernigan at 919-320-7387.

Every Tuesday 7 a.m

Cleveland School Rotary Club Cleveland Draft House, Garner Cleveland School Rotary Club meets weekly and serves the citizens of the 40/42 area of Johnston County and Garner.

First and third Tuesdays

Tuesday Tastings Soap and Coffee Hut, 5533 N.C. Hwy 42 West, Garner The Soap and Coffee Hut will have a selection of tea and coffee to try throughout the day. From 3 p.m. until closing, they will have some special brews you won’t want to miss.

It’s a free event, and for more information, call Melodie at 919-623-8933.

Every Third Friday, 6-9 p.m.

Free Carriage Rides Downtown Smithfield The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation hosts free carriage rides, starting on the corner of Third and Market, around the beautiful, historic downtown area each month. Have dinner and drinks at one of our locally owned restaurants, catch a movie at the Howell Theatre and enjoy some small town charm!

Every Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Stepping into the Past series Tobacco Farm Life Museum, Kenly Each Saturday, enjoy demonstrations and displays of traditional arts, crafts and trades are featured on-site at the Tobacco Farm Life Museum in Kenly. All activities are included with regular admission to the museum, annual passes are available. For more information, call 919-284-3431.

March 1-31

Story Time James Bryan Creech Library, Four Oaks Come out for story time at the library each Wednesday morning. For more information, call 919-963-6013.

Literary Programs Selma Pubic Library The Selma 150th anniversary committee has been working with librarian Phyllis Brown and members of the Johnston County Writers to plan literary events in honor of the Town of Selma’s 150th anniversary. Most events take place at Selma Public Library, 301 N. Pollock Street, Selma. Call 919-975-1411 for more details.

Second Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

March 1-31

Every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.

Prayer Cloth Crocheting Soap and Coffee Hut, 5533 N.C. Hwy 42 West, Garner Bring some supplies (yarn, crochet hooks, scissors and a needle) and learn all about prayer cloth crocheting. It’s a free event, and for more information, call Melodie at 919-623-8933.

Every Thursday, 4-6 p.m.

Write-In at Grapes & Grounds in Smithfield Johnston County Writers Group Socialize, write or critique over coffee with members of The Johnston County Writers Group. For more information, email Cindy at brookshire1014@verizon.net.

Every Thursday, 9-11 a.m

Plant a Row for the Hungry - Johnston County Johnston Community College Arboretum This is a year-round garden providing fresh fruit and vegetables to nearby soup kitchens and food pantries. No gardening experience is required to volunteer and training is provided. For more information, please contact Tiffany at plantarow@yahoo.com.

Every Thursday, 10-11 a.m.

Bible Study Soap and Coffee Hut, 5533 N.C. Hwy 42 West, Garner All are welcome, just bring yourself and your Bible (no particular translation, bring what you are most comfortable with reading). For more information, call Melodie at 919-623-8933.

Display of Local Authors Selma Public Library The library will host a display of books by local authors during the month of March. Register to win an Aspiring Writer Basket, donated by the Johnston County Writers Group. The group, facilitated by retired educator Gary Ridout, meets the second Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the library. No purchase is necessary, and the winner doesn’t have to be present at the drawing, to be held at noon on March 25 at the library.

Wednesday, March 1, 1-3 p.m.

Tax Implications for Starting a Small Business JCC Workforce Development Center This session covers the basics of North Carolina tax compliance ranging from withholding from, employees, sales and use tax requirements. Information provided will help small business owners understand the types of small business taxes as well as the deadlines. For more information, call 919-209-2015.

Thursday, March 2, 6-9 p.m.

Federal Taxes for a Small Business (IRS) JCC Workforce Development Center Are you unsure of how to manage the information, files, and the type deductions you need to support for your small business reporting to the IRS? This seminar is full of information to help your business thrive without the stress from thinking about taxes. Learn the types of small business taxes you will need to report, types of deductions, deadlines, and much more. Attendees should have computer skills, keyboard and mouse skills. For more information, call 919-209-2015.

Friday, March 3, 6 p.m

Benson’s First Friday Visit Downtown Benson for its monthly First Friday event!

Participating shops will remain open until 9 p.m. Some shops will offer light refreshments (wine, beer, etc.) DIY projects, crafts or an exclusive First Friday sale. There will also be a food truck set up in Benton Square.

Saturday, March 4, 10 a.m

Clayton Farm and Community Market Main Street, Clayton Since April 2009, the Clayton Farm and Community Market has offered shoppers a chance to pick up locally produced fruits, veggies and plenty of other locally created goodies.

Tuesday, March 7, 4-5 p.m.

Open Mic Writing Workshop Selma Public Library Come out for an open-mic writing workshop for teens and adults and learn how to prepare your poetry, spoken word and flash fiction for performance.

Tuesday, March 7, 6-7:30 p.m.

The Basics of Business Banking JCC Workforce Development Center In this seminar, you will be provided a general understanding of banking for your small business. Topics to be covered include choosing your bank, the information needed to establish a relationship with the bank and the inner workings of your business accounts. An overview will be provided of business banking services, such as merchant services and remote image deposit. We will also discuss items to consider when you need a small business loan. For more information, call 919-209-2015.

Wednesday, March 8, 9 a.m

2017 Auxin Training Johnston County Ag Center Due to the recent registration of 2, 4-D and Dicamba products that will be used on Xtend cotton and soybeans, several states, including North Carolina, have decided use a special local needs label. The producer, certified applicator, or person responsible for the application of this product on cotton or soybeans, in-crop, must attend an Auxin Herbicides - Best Management Practices training that is approved by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. For more details, call Tim Britton at 919-989-5380.

Add your organization’s events to the community calendar at JohnstonNow.com or email us at calendar@JohnstonNow.com. For the full community calendar with hundreds of area events, visit JohnstonNow.com 30 | JOHNSTON NOW

Wednesday, March 8, 10 a.m

Friday, March 17, 5-6 p.m.

Wednesday, March 8, 1 p.m

Saturday, March 18, 10 a.m.

Paint-In at Grapes & Grounds Bring your supplies and get ready to paint, draw or sketch at Grapes & Grounds on Third Street in Smithfield. This is an opportunity for local artists of skill levels to come together to share conversation and work on art. For more information, call the Johnston County Arts Council at 919-738-9622.

2017 Pesticide Exam Johnston County Ag Center The North Carolina Pesticide exams will be offered on Wednesday, March 8 and Wednesday, August 9 at 1 p.m. at the Johnston County Ag Center. To take the exam, bring valid ID (Drivers License) and calculator. Please arrive by 12:30 p.m. For more details, call Tim Britton at 919-989-5380.

Thursday, March 9, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Dr. Tiffany Tyson Selma Public Library Dr. Tiffany Tyson of Wilson will speak to aspiring writers about how she uses literature and the arts to inspire teens and young adults. Tyson addresses issues such self-esteem, respect, peer pressure, substance abuse and teen relationships. Light refreshments will be served and Tyson’s book, “Urban Princess,” will be available for purchase.

St. Paddy’s Day Pool Party Smithfield Recreation and Aquatic Center Don’t be green with envy. Join the folks at the SRAC and hunt for Leprechauns. Those pesky magical creatures can be found all over and who knows, maybe you will find their pot of gold! For more, call the SRAC at 919-934-2116.

War So Terrible Bentonville Battlefield Compare and contrast the treatment received by soldiers during the Civil War with the treatment that our wounded warriors now receive by viewing examples of modern military field hospitals. Then tour the Harper House to learn about Civil War era medicine. These daytime programs will also feature artillery, infantry, and homefront demonstrations throughout both days, and are free.

March 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Clayton Farm and Community Market Main Street, Clayton Since April 2009, the Clayton Farm and Community Market has offered shoppers a chance to pick up locally produced fruits, veggies and plenty of other locally created goodies.

Tuesday, March 21, 6-8 p.m.

Showcase of Stars Paul A. Johnston Auditorium, JCC The 2017 Showcase of Stars is March 10-12. Come see and support over 2,000 Johnston County Schools students and see them perform on the big stage at Johnston Community College in six different area performances. We will need volunteers of all ages. For more information, call 919-934-7977.

Johnston Community College Career in a Year John L. Tart Building, College Road, Smithfield Want to get trained and get to work? Not all careers require a two-year or four-year degree. Check out this event to learn how Johnston Community College can help you land a good-paying career in business, biotechnology, healthcare, HVAC, machining, welding, information technology, cosmetology, education, public safety and many other professions in a year or less. For more, log on to johnstoncc.edu//career-in-a-year/index.aspx or see the ad on Page 3.

Thursday, March 16, 10 a.m. to noon

Tuesday, March 21, 6-8 p.m.

Friday, March 10-12

Interactive Pesticide training Johnston County Livestock Arena The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in Johnston County is inviting all commercial and private applicators, dealers, consultants and public ground operators to attend an Interactive Pesticide Training class.

Please bring your Pesticide Credit Report Card with the barcode to this class. For more details, call Tim Britton at 919-989-5380.

Thursday, March 16, 6 p.m.

Johnston County Arts Council’s Eighth-Annual Art and Food Festival Gala Johnston Community College This fundraiser will generate funds to assist the Arts Council with funding for the 2017 Artists-in-the-Schools program, to provide scholarships for Johnston Community College students studying Fine Arts and for free community programming. Tickets are $40 each or two for $75 and attendees will be treated to sample dishes from Johnston County’s finest restaurants. To attend the event, please contact Darlene Williford at 919-738-9622 or email info@jcartscouncil.org.

Federal Rules: Exempt vs Nonexempt — Wages and Hours JCC Workforce Development Center A U.S. Department of Labor Investigator will discuss the final rule on a test that must be met for Executive, Administrative and Professional workers to be exempt.

Seminar information will include other wage and hour discussions for small business and other businesses with employees or that expect to have future employees.

Seating is limited, so please preregister separately with your own email address. For more information, call 919-209-2015.

Tuesday, March 24, 7-9 p.m.

Cornerstone Writers Open Mic Writing Workshop Hula Girl Cafe, Selma Come out for an open-mic writing workshop for teens and adults and learn how to prepare your poetry, spoken word and flash fiction for performance.

Saturday, March 25, 10-11 a.m.

Children’s Story Time Selma Public Library Author Leah Ward will read from her children’s book, “Pinny the Bowling Pin.” Ward is a Selma native who writes children’s and young adult books. Her books will be available for purchase. Also reading to children will be Teen Miss Railroad Days, Hannah Musa and Miss Railroad Days, Jenna Hughes.

Saturday, March 25, 5:30 p.m.

Night Safari Howell Woods, Four Oaks Learn about the native nocturnal species commonly found in this part of the state. They will discuss habitat, diet and how these species have evolved to thrive in darkness.

Using a safari vehicle, you’ll take a ride out on the property to search for night animals. Cost is $15 per person. To register, please email mamassengill@johnstoncc.edu or call the Learning Center at 919-938-0115.

Saturday, March 25, 8 p.m.

Law & Disorder The Clayton Center National headlining comedians Karen Morgan and Jim Colliton join together in this hilarious show about life as we know it: mowing grass, talking trash and better halves that make us laugh.

Everyone can relate to Jim and Karen’s humor. They talk about their spouses, their children, their neighbors and their parents. And, after you hear about what goes on in their neighborhoods, you may want to go home and take a closer look at your own — perhaps you will look at it with a whole new perspective.

Thursday, March 30, 5-6:30 p.m.

Clayton Chamber of Commerce Night of Networking The Clayton Center Come out for a evening of networking with a Health and Wellness theme. For more information, contact the chamber at 919-553-6352.

Thursday, March 30, 8 p.m.

The Neuse Little Theatre presents “Bloom” A drama by Andrew Morton, following the death of his father, 15-year-old Daniel and his mother, Lisa, are forced to move to unfamiliar Flint, Michigan. After a violent outburst at his new school, Daniel’s social worker, Michelle, suggests he spend a week working with her father, Bobby, an urban gardener of several abandoned lots in the middle of the city. A week soon turns into a few months, and, as the two spend the summer tending the gardens, they begin to plant some much needed hope in a neighborhood plagued by blight and help each other heal some old wounds. For more, call 919-934-1873.

Saturday, April 1, 7 a.m.

Taking Strides Against Family Violence Run/Walk 5K Cooper Elementary, Mial Street, Clayton.

The Johnston County alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta is hosting a 5K walk/run with the proceeds going to Harbor House in Smithfield. The cost is $40.

For more information, send an email to info@johnstoncountydeltas.com.

MARCH 2017 | 31

Two Medium 2-Topping Pizzas

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W TRY OURSaNlEads Caesakren or apple.

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