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Photos from the Four Oaks, Benson, Selma, Smithfield and Clayton Christmas parades.

7 CARD ANGELS Spreading love and cheer in an old-fashioned way.

4 | JOHNSTON NOW YOUR J-NOW TEAM Volume 1, Number 2 A Shandy Communications, LLC publication

Publisher Randy Capps

General Manager 26 Shanna Capps SELMA’S 150TH ANNIVERSARY The year-long celebration for 2017 has been planned and scheduled.

OOPS In our December teacher Creative Consultant story, we made a couple Ethan Capps of errors. First, Charley is named for her father and grandfather, but both of them spell Charlie the tradition- al way. And April has been teaching for 15 years, but not all of those have been in first grade. We regret the errors. Creative Director — Randy Capps Frank Spurlock

PAGE 6 PAGE 27 LOOKING ON THE BRIGHT SIDE THE WORD OF THE YEAR FOR 2017 Editorial Consultant FOR 2017 IS “EFFORT” Mike Bollinger Interested in advertising? Send an email to PAGE 10 PAGE 28 [email protected] or call 919-618-4405 Story idea or a photo to share? READER SUBMISSIONS: THE SERVING SPOON SERVES UP Send an email to [email protected] NEWS FROM YOUR NEIGHBORS GOOD FOOD, COMMUNITY SPIRIT or mail it to P.O. Box 58, Four Oaks, N.C., 27524 919-980-5522 www.johnstonnow.com PAGE 14 PAGE 30 Facebook.com/JohnstonNow

FITNESS IS A JOURNEY, J-NOW CALENDAR OF EVENTS Johnson Now Magazine is a monthly publication of Shandy Communications, LLC for our Johnston County neighbors. No part NOT A DESTINATION FOR JANUARY of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent by the publisher. Advertisers take sole responsibility for the validity of their advertisement. ©2016 Johnston Now. All rights reserved.

JANUARY 2017 | 5 FROM THE PUBLISHER A new year’s resolution to look on the bright side It’s 2017, and as the calendar flips again, I’m left in a familiar position — Now, as a journalist, I’m contractually obligated making another New Year’s resolution. to be cynical.

I usually make the same one every year, and it’s not even particularly The first thing I learned at Gardner-Webb about Randy Capps imaginative. journalism was, “if your mother says she loves [email protected] you, check it out.” After my New Year’s Day tradition of binge watching soccer, then football for the better part of 16 hours, I resolve to eat better and exercise more in But, while I’ll have to retain a cynical eye in some things, in others, I’m the year ahead. going to try to look on the bright side.

January and February are usually pretty good months, but inevitably, I go Marcus Aurelius said, “dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see back to eating things that are bad for me while sitting relatively still for the yourself running with them.” good portion of the day. Put more simply, I’m going to count my blessings, rather than worry about It’s a vicious cycle, and one I’ll foolishly be resuming this year. my curses, both real and imagined.

But, just for fun, I’m making an extra resolution this time around. Perhaps, with a positive attitude, I can make the other resolution to lose weight work, too. I’m going to try to be more positive. Hey, a guy can dream, can’t he?

NOVEMBER 2016 | Your Community. Your Neighbors. Your Story.

OCTOBER 2016 | Your Community. Your Neighbors. Your Story.

JULY 2016 | Your Community. Your Neighbors. Your Story.

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6 | JOHNSTON NOW Photo submitted by Cindy Edwards

By Randy Capps

FOUR OAKS — It’s a chilly Friday night, and a room full of young girls are crowded around a couple of tables in the fellowship hall at First Baptist Four Oaks. Normally this many kids, ages ranging from 10 to 12, left to their own devices would be texting, tweeting, snapping and whatever the verb is for using Instagram. On this night, the scene is much different. This group calls themselves the Card Angels, and as the name implies, they send cards to people who can use them — either around the corner or on the other side of the world. It was an idea born out of a typical childhood issue, boredom, but inspired by a Bible study about using your gifts and talents to serve God by helping others. “I didn’t have anything to do at church and my brother did,” Lainey Edwards said. “Me and my friends that went here always ended up playing outside all night. We wanted to have a class, but we didn’t want to go with the younger kids. I was looking on Pinterest and I saw different ideas for cards. And I thought, ‘that’s what I want to do at church.’” “It started with Lainey and Addison’s (Canaday) age group not really having a class at church,” Lainey’s mom, Cindy, said. “The youth groups were kind of in a transition, and they were kind of in between ages. Lainey got the idea of getting her group of friends together and starting to do the cards for the sick list at the church.” Cindy Edwards helps with the latest card design. That was the fall of last year, and since then, the Card Angels’ mission has Photo by Randy Capps

JANUARY 2017 | 7 Above, the Card Angels work together on a project. Below/Right, the tools of the trade. Photos by Randy Capps expanded a bit. The group, which usually has around 12 girls for their monthly meeting, sends cards to soldiers who are deployed and to sick children at St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Last year, Lainey was proud to get a response from one of the soldiers to whom she sent a card for the holidays. Cindy has a Facebook friend in Minnesota that tips her off when there’s a need for cards at the facility. “When she sends out that a sick child is in need of cards, or it’s their birthday, we will bombard them with birthday cards, or smile cards or get-well cards,” she said. “Stuff like that. Because they pretty much live at the hospital.” Addison was hard at work on a card, but took time to chat with a visitor. “I helped mama do stuff with scrapbooking, but I didn’t make cards before I came here.” Addison said. Her favorite involved hearts and paper mache. “We took a heart-shaped paper punch and we punched three hearts and then we glued them together to make a flower,” Cindy said. “Then we took a paper-mache flower and glued in the center a shiny jewel.” Not something one plucks from the mailbox every day. “One of the reason I do it is that the world needs a little bit more smiles and love,” Cindy said. “So, in the digital age of texting, sometimes it’s nice “My mom does the card ministry at my church,” she said. “Mama’s always to get what we call snail mail. You can get something nice, get a smile and talking about how people come up to her and tell her how much they know that someone’s actually thinking about you.” appreciate a card being sent. Just something as simple as taking the time to sign a card and send it to them.” Addison’s mother, Joy, chimes in from the next table. Far more lasting and personal that a smiley face emoji.

8 | JOHNSTON NOW Johnston County Walk to End Alzheimer’s raises $27,000 Submitted by Eastern N.C. Alzheimer’s Association FOUR OAKS — More than 250 residents from Johnston County joined the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s and united in a movement to reclaim the future for millions at Barbour’s Grove Park on Saturday, Nov. 5. Participants raised more than $27,000 towards their $33,235 goal to fund Alzheimer’s care, support and research programs. Smithfield resident David Wilson spoke during the inspirational ceremony, sharing his wife’s diagnosis at 53 years old. “Please realize that you are not alone in this battle,” he said. “We are currently in the planning stage of organizing a support group in the county to share experiences, education, and resources. Together we can work to find answers and resources to help and support our loved ones who are struggling with this disease.” Funds raised through Walk to End Alzheimer’s initiatives directly impact local communities and allow the Eastern North Carolina chapter to continue their efforts implementing and facilitating support groups, education programs and care consultations. Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. As baby boomers age, the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease will rapidly escalate, increasing well beyond today’s more than 5 million Americans to as many as 16 million by 2050. In North Carolina alone, there are over 160,000 people living with Alzheimer’s. For more information or to make a donation, please visit act.alz.org/johnstoncountywalk.

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JANUARY 2017 | 9 across the hedge. down the street. around the block. NEWS FROM YOUR NEIGHBORS

Benson Elementary carnival raises $7,000 for hurricane victims Submitted by Johnston County Schools Benson Elementary held a Hurricane Matthew Helping Hands Carnival that raised more than $7,000. The community event helped to raise funds to support families in the area who were affected during Hurricane Matthew. Tracie Johnson, Benson Elementary Remediation Specialist, headed this event for the community. She worked with various local agencies to prepare for the carnival. Pictured here: Benson Elementary student Hailey Reed visits the American Legion Auxiliary Post 109 booth on Nov. 10 during the school’s Hurricane Matthew Helping Hands Carnival

Golden Circle of Excellence Elite Twenty award presented Submitted by Golden Corral of Smithfield

South Johnston FFA team wins state livestock competition Submitted by Johnston County Schools In late November, eight South Johnston High School FFA members traveled to the General manager Dana Soriano and Golden Corral Hunt Horse Complex in Raleigh to participate in the annual N.C. FFA Livestock franchisee Eric Brownlee pose with the certificate Competition. honoring the Smithfield location with the Golden The team placed first out of 76 teams in North Carolina. During this competition Circle of Excellence Elite Twenty award. The the members were challenged to use skills obtained in their agriculture education distinction is for its “steadfast focus on operational classes and experience with the Johnston County Livestock Judging Team. excellence” for its buffet. They will advance to the National FFA Convention to compete in the National “Without Dana’s tireless work and dedication, none Livestock Judging Event later this fall. of the success in Smithfield would be possible,” Brownlee said. “Dana and her husband, Jose, are part Pictured above: Left to right, Makayla Byrd, Brittany Beasley, Rachel Murphy, Travis of our family and they treat my family the same.” Anderson and advisor Chelsea Sawkiw. 10 | JOHNSTON NOW across the hedge. down the street. around the block. NEWS FROM YOUR NEIGHBORS Adult Spelling Bee raises $12K for classroom grants Submitted by Johnston County Schools

Blake Roberson, Caroline Daily from River Spelling bee champions (from left) are Selma The Selma Middle Adult Spelling Bee team stands Middle, and Doug Pawlak also from Riverwood Middle Principal Chris Kennedy, Gina Bedford, with their 2016 trophy. Team members (from left) Middle pose for a photo at the Johnston County Gwen Sullivan, and Chrystal Trammell. are Principal Chris Kennedy, Gina Bedford, Gwen Education Foundation Adult Spelling Bee. Sullivan, and Chrystal Trammell.

Johnston County Schools educators, money for teachers in the schools,” said Once a team was eliminated, Roberson businesses, and community members came Brandy Crocker, the Executive Director of the would pop the team’s balloon, indicating they together to raise more than $12,000 at the Johnston County Education Foundation.“The were out of the competition. Johnston County Education Foundation worse your spelling is, the more money we Selma Middle defeated Smithfield-Selma (JCEF) 2016 Adult Spelling Bee. make. It’s a fun night for everybody.” High in the final round to win the 2016 Adult The Adult Spelling Bee is one of the largest Whenever a team misspelled a word they Spelling Bee. fundraisers JCEF puts on each year. had the opportunity to donate money to stay Adding to the evening’s fun, teams dressed Proceeds from the fundraiser go towards in the game. If the team decided not to pay in costumes consistent with the spelling grants for teachers in Johnston County they were eliminated. bee’s Old Hollywood theme. Schools. “It’s good to have a fun social event and raise West Clayton Elementary won the best Schools from around the district, as well as money at the same time. The most important costume award for their Casablanca themed local businesses, competed to raise money thing about this event is that we’re raising attire, while Micro Elementary won the spirit for the education foundation. money,” said Blake Roberson, who dressed award for their Jelly Belly Spellers costumes. “This is a fun event where we can raise as the bee for the event. Smile for dental health Submitted by Christopher Vo, D.D.S. (doctor of dental smiles) • www.smileSObig.com SMILE! No seriously, lick those • Boosts our mood As a smile practitioner, I’ve lips, stretch those cheeks, loosen • Can lower our levels of stress learned that the reality, and the up those face muscles and and anxiety power, of the smile is directly give the world an ENORMOUS related to your confidence in • Can even strengthen our smile. You’ll feel better — that’s your smile. immune system. scientifically proven — and you’ll So now we’re talking teeth! If that’s not enough to convince brighten up the lives of those Yellow teeth, crooked teeth, you to flash your smile more around you while you’re at it. broken teeth, smelly teeth…no often, then you should also know As a dentist, I focus on teeth and teeth! Sounds like lyrics to a bad that people who smile are not smiles all day long. While they’re country song. only seen as more attractive and two very different things, they do trustworthy, but they are even They also sound like the reasons fall under the same category that I hear every day that are keeping perceived to be better leaders. even be surprised at how easy we all prioritize so much — our people from unleashing their You might be saying, “OK, Dr. and how — dare I say it — health. smiles and experiencing a Vo (call me Chris), I’m sold on painless they are. So let’s talk about some of the happier, healthier life. smiles. Sign me up.” Go ahead. Take action by giving health benefits of smiling. Whatever your reason, whatever But you’ve got to understand your local dentist a call, and First off, studies have shown that your concern, I assure you there something. make 2017 the year of your smiling: are great solutions. You might smile. JANUARY 2017 | 11 Announce 2017 schedule By Greg Young, Carolina Mudcats ZEBULON — The Carolina Mudcats, first year affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers, released their 2017 season schedule recently. The season opener is on the road in Frederick against the Keys on Thursday, April 6, and the club’s home opener is set for Thursday, April 13 at Five County Stadium against the Keys. The season opener in Frederick on April 6 marks the start of Carolina’s 27th consecutive season of and the club’s first as an affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. Opening Night 2017 on April 13 in Zebulon marks the start of what will be a 70- game home schedule (with an additional four home dates versus Buies Creek where Carolina will play as the away team) for the Mudcats at Five County Stadium. The Mudcats, for the sixth consecutive season, will once again host the ever popular “Mudcats For America” Independence Day post-game fireworks series beginning on Monday, July 3 and continuing on Tuesday, July 4. The “Mudcats For America” series will include consecutive nights of the finest post-game fireworks show in Eastern North Carolina. The new schedule is also highlighted by games on Easter Sunday, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Memorial Day and Labor Day. In all, the Mudcats will play 140 total games in 2017, with the majority of which coming versus their Carolina League Southern division rivals; the Winston- Salem Dash, and the newly added clubs in both Kinston (Down East Woods Ducks) and Buies Creek (Houston Astros affiliate). The Mudcats will see the Dash a total of 24 times in 2017 including 13 at home and 11 on the road in Winston-Salem. Carolina will also take on the new Buies Creek Astros team 23 times in 2017 with 16 of those scheduled on the road. However, four of the 16 road games versus Buies Creek will be played at Five County Stadium (April 20 - April 23) with the Astros acting as the home team and the Mudcats as the visiting club. The 2017 schedule also includes 21 meetings against the Pelicans (eight home, 13 away) and Wood Ducks, including 14 at Five County Stadium and seven in Kinston. The season opener on April 7 in Frederick will be the first of 18 games against the Keys, the most for the Mudcats against a non-divisional opponent during the 2017 season. The majority of those 18 games will be played over the first two months of the season with 11 meetings in April and three more in May. The remainder of the Mudcats schedule includes seven games against the (four home, three away), eight versus the (four home, four away), nine versus the Lynchburg Hillcats (six home with a doubleheader scheduled for April 18, three away) and nine versus former division rivals in the (three home, six away). A full calendar of in-season events, theme nights, promotions and giveaways will be announced at a later date.

12 | JOHNSTON NOW Johnston County chambers tab new leaders By Randy Capps Four area chambers of commerce are under new leadership, and another director position with the Smithfield-Selma Area Chamber of Commerce should be filled by the end of January. The Clayton, Kenly, Four Oaks and the Greater Cleveland Area chambers all hired new directors in the fourth quarter, and all bring a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the table.

Dana Wooten Gail Cuddington Cindy Pursell time here 10 years ago, I’d have moved here. I really like it here.” Clayton tabbed After several years A rainy Tuesday Wooten, a without a director, morning finds Kim Lawter Smithfield-Selma Kenly has tabbed the Four Oaks High and University Gail Cuddington to Area Chamber of A Clayton native of North Carolina fill that role. Commerce’s new with experience graduate, as its new executive director working with She retired from that chamber executive director. Strickland Insurance Brokers in hard at work on a new and improved website. and downtown She’s been executive director of the Goldsboro, where she served as a development Johnston County Association of branch manager and assistant vice It’s just one of the new ideas that Cindy association, Kim Lawter brings plenty Realtors for the past 13 years and president. Pursell hopes to bring to the table. of experience and passion to her graduated from UNC Chapel Hill. The North Johnston High School “When I first interviewed with them, new position as executive director of “Dana brings extensive board and graduate was enjoying retirement, but they told me they were struggling,” the Greater Cleveland Chamber of nonprofit management experience, couldn’t resist a call from an old friend she said, when asked about why she Commerce. far-reaching professional relationships, about working at the chamber. took the position. “I’m one who likes a “My experience in Clayton taught creativity, and local-market knowledge “I was called by the mayor (David challenge and I came in with the hope me that I really love doing this,” to the Clayton Chamber, as well as Grady),” she said. “He and I go way of putting the Four Oaks Chamber she said. “Event planning, building working grassroots initiatives and back. He asked if I’d be interested in back on the map.” relationships — this place has such a legislative advocacy expertise,” a working part-time for the chamber.” Originally from Maryland, she spent great opportunity to grow.” statement from the chamber said. She took the job, not only for a friend, much of her adult life in in Northern After more than two decades in the “I am excited about the upcoming year but for her grandchildren. and Central Ohio. She moved corporate world working in human at the Clayton Chamber,” she said. “I to Clayton 10 years ago and most resources, Lawter started her own “So far, I’m having a great time,” am looking forward to getting to know recently worked at the Smithfield- social media and marketing company she said. “I like to stay busy, and the business owners in the Clayton area Selma Chamber of Commerce. in 2014. this sort of fell in line with my to assess what programs they would She also has experience in public like to see the Chamber provide. experience. I’m a people person, and She plans on putting that knowledge to this is an opportunity to promote the education, real estate and financial good use in her new role. “Clayton is a great place to live, work, community and make it a better place institutions. and play and I am very fortunate “Growing the membership is our No. 1 to live for my grandchildren.” Although she’s been on the job only a priority,” she said. “I also want to grow to have been given this wonderful short while, she’s already helped stage a opportunity.” our social media. (We need to) start successful Christmas parade and seems using Instagram and Twitter and really eager to face the challenges the new boost our social media marketing. year will bring. We’re going to take a look at our “We want to bring the Four Oaks website. There’s so much to do, I’m so Acorn Festival back, and let people excited. I can’t wait.” know about Four Oaks,” she said. “Four Oaks is a nice place to be. I told my husband that if I had spent any

JANUARY 2017 | 13 Treat fitness as a journey, not a destination By Randy Capps FOUR OAKS — Leslie Radford is a blur of fitness energy. The 39-year-old wife and mother is at the front of a class at Four Oaks Fitness Center on a chilly Thursday night. And she’s having a blast. As Fergie blares from the sound system, she has an ear-to-ear smile as she leads the class through some warm-up moves. Even her outfit is fun, complete with a headband that reads “The Struggle is Real.” Getting into shape — and staying that way — absolutely is a struggle. And, at first glance, it appears to be a battle she’s winning. But there was a time that she couldn’t beat the sand on a beach. Three years ago, she was about 300 pounds with achy knees, hypertension and high blood pressure. She knew the health risks she was facing, but a more immediate crisis inspired her to make some changes. “I had taken a trip with my son (to Costa Rica),” she said. “We had taken a hike out that day for a service trip, and we were miles from the village, on the beach, when a storm rolled in off the ocean. Clockwise from top. Leslie Radford teaches a “WERQ” class at Four Oaks Fitness Center. “At the time, my son was probably 10, and it was just Photos by Shanna Capps me and him and the other people we were there with — no other family. There was nowhere to go but back to the village. “So, I sent him ahead because I couldn’t keep up. I was physically unable to manage the environment I was in, but I had to get back. It was lightning and I was on the beach. It was one of those moments when I promised myself — I prayed the whole way — I said ‘God, just let me get back. If I can get back, I promise I’ll make some changes.’ “I had health problems, but it took that moment. When my safety was at risk and my son’s safety was at risk, it was like something had to give. It took me a couple of months before I could man up and find a place to go.” The idea of starting a fitness regime can be intimidating. It’s hard to know where to go or what class to take. “One day, I got up and said, ‘I’m going to go,’” she said. “So, I went. And it was not a beginner’s class. I A look at Leslie in 2013. And a look at what she looks like now. cried while I was there, I cried when I left the studio and I cried all the way home. And I thought, ‘I can’t noticing physical changes as well. “It makes sense to me. I understand so many places do this. But I have to do this.’” “I was bitten by the fitness bug,” she said. “I could see that different people are that come into the class. I In that class, she discovered Zumba, which combines changes in my strength, my body and my abilities. can encourage them and have fun with them in a way dance moves with fitness training. The weight started coming off, and I was driven by that I wouldn’t be able to otherwise.” “I was scared to go into a regular gym,” she said. “I that. I’m stronger. It’s all those little challenges along As a teacher who can remember struggling to tie her ended up in a dance studio that was a Zumba studio, the way that kept me going and still keep me going.” shoes not so long ago, there really isn’t any stop on the and when I went, it was hard. The people, and the After taking classes for a few years, she decided she fitness journey she hasn’t seen. relationships that I made and the encouragement that wanted to learn how to teach them. “I would not even say that I’m an expert,” she said. I got is what kept me coming back. That, and being “It started as a personal challenge,” she said. “I wanted “I have fun. I tell my students that my classes are a able to have that time for myself. to see if I could get licensed in Zumba. I never had judgment-free zone. They see me make mistakes. I’m “For so long I didn’t take that hour a day for myself. any intention to teach. But in this journey that I’ve human. I forget choreography. Sometimes, I step on You’re running the rat race. You’re up, you’re packing had, I’ve been able to be inspired by some amazing the wrong beat. That, I think, encourages them and lunches, you’re headed to point A, point B, point people who have great stories. And paying it forward lets them know it’s a safe place. I remember the first C — there’s so much that happens in our lives. It was became one of those things that was almost like a time I walked into a studio, I was terrified. I wasn’t that time for me.” ministry. sure it was a safe place.” In addition to feeling better mentally, she started She teaches three different classes at three different

14 | JOHNSTON NOW locations in the county. She teaches WERQ, a dance, pop rock and hip-hop Taking the first steps class, STRONG by Zumba, which features high- A journey of 1,000 miles starts with a single step, and that’s exactly how it can feel to start a fitness regime. intensity interval training and Aqua Zumba, which Setting big goals is fine, Radford says, but sometimes, smaller ones can make things easier. are moves designed for a swimming pool. “That’s what I told the instructor that first day,” she said. “I told her I was going to lose a hundred pounds. And Her schedule has her floating around from Four Oaks she told me later that, when I left, she thought she’d never see me again. Because so many people say that. You Fitness to HealthQuest and the Smithfield Recreation set these huge long term goals, but it’s like climbing Mount Everest. It’s overwhelming. and Aquatics Center, but it’s a good time — for her “I would just set small goals. I need to make it through this class alive. If I can crawl out of the door and drive and her students. home, I’ll be OK. I’ll take a shower and I’ll think about doing it again tomorrow. That’s how I started my goals. “It’s a party,” she said. “It’s such a good social event It’s sort of playing a mind game with yourself, but you have to find what works for you. The voice in your head as well. The people that are there in class are usually can sometimes talk you out of a lot. That voice was sometimes my worst enemy. My trainer could recognize it there with friends, or they make friends and develop in me, and I can see it in my students. You have to push it down. It’s not easy. You just have to be hard-headed. bonds with each other. It’s a great way to sort of lose And I’m good at that.” yourself. And while you’re making those small goals, put the scale away. “It’s for people that enjoy dance and don’t maybe have “I don’t get on the scale every day,” she said. “When I first started, I would get on the scale once a week. I’d set a place to dance that’s appropriate. Or a lot of women a day and a time, just to measure. But it’s just one measuring tool. It becomes an enemy at times, if you let it. just need that time to themselves to just sort of forget You don’t give it that power.” about work and being dedicated to their children and Another reason to keep the goals small is that, even after losing 120 pounds and becoming certified to teach the putting everybody else before them. This gives them classes she used to help her get in shape, Leslie is still setting markers for herself. that time to put themselves first.” “It’s a numbers game,” she said. “You know what you eat, and you can’t out-exercise what you eat, either. So, I It’s rewarding for her to see her students on the road try to eat fairly clean most of the time. I give myself days where I can have what I want. The buttermilk pie at to wellness, too. Thanksgiving is definitely what I wanted. I didn’t make huge changes all at once. Little steps at the time. “I love people and I love to see their growth,” she “I’m not where I want to be. I’d still like to do more push-ups and other activities that I struggle with. So I keep said. “It excites me when a student sends me a text pushing. Eventually, I’ll get there.” where they have this dress in their closet for years that So, about that beach? they’ve not been able to wear, and it’s them in the “I would love to go back,” she said. “Just to see the difference. The sand on the beach is different than it is here. dress. It’s such an encouragement to me and it keeps You really sink in it. I really struggled.” me going to see my students get excited. Really, we’re all in this together. We have to help each other out It seems likely that she’d handle it just fine. once in a while. It’s a village effort.” One step at a time.

Web Design & M a s s i v e M o t i v e s . c o m Photography 9 2 9 . 2 5 6 . 5 6 2 6

JANUARY 2017 | 15 FOUR OAKS

Four Oaks holds annual Christmas parade The streets of Four Oaks were filled with fun and laughter for its annual Christmas parade. Here are a few scenes from the event.

Photos courtesy of the Four Oaks Area Chamber of Commerce 16 | JOHNSTON NOW JANUARY 2017 | 17 BENSON

Benson’s Christmas on Main celebration Benson got its holiday season off to a flying start with its annual Christmas on Main celebration. The event featured the town tree lighting, a parade, entertainment and even a visit from Santa Claus.

Photos courtesy of Benson Chamber of Commerce 18 | JOHNSTON NOW JANUARY 2017 | 19 SELMA

Town of Selma holds Christmas parade The Town of Selma held its annual Christmas parade on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

Photos courtesy of the Town of Selma 20 | JOHNSTON NOW JANUARY 2017 | 21 SMITHFIELD

Smithfield Christmas parade Smithfield hosted its annual Christmas parade on Thursday, Dec. 8. Here are a few scenes from the event.

Photos courtesy of the Town of Smithfield 22 | JOHNSTON NOW JANUARY 2017 | 23 CLAYTON

Clayton’s Christmas festivities Clayton kicked off the Christmas season with their Village and Tree Lighting and the Rotary Christmas Parade.

Photos courtesy of Massive Motives 24 | JOHNSTON NOW

Town of Selma plans year-long celebration of its 150th anniversary

By Ashby Brame Johnston County Visitors Bureau

SELMA — The Town of Selma has planned a year-long celebration in 2017 to celebrate its 150th Anniversary. On May 1, 1867, with a dance and barbecue hosted by town founder, Confederate Civil War officer John W. Sharpe, lots were sold around a newly established station on the North Carolina Railroad. Sharpe moved the Mitchener Station approximately one-mile east along the tracks to establish the town; the station was built around 1855 and is thought to be the oldest surviving train station in North Carolina. Today, Selma remains an important railroad town where north/south and east/west tracks help move commerce up and down the eastern seaboard. The town was officially chartered on February 11, 1873 and, in 2004, the town Photo courtesy of Johnston County Visitors Bureau renovated its 1924 passenger depot with museum quality exhibits on the history of the town and railroad. Learn more about the history of Selma during this year-long celebration by attending one or more of the monthly events, coordinated by the Selma Development Partnership. The following list represents the current details available at the time of this release:

January 21, 9 a.m. March 1-31 American Legion & Smithfield-Selma on display. In addition, an architectural 5K Polar Bear Run and Dinner at the Literary Programs High School Jr. ROTC, all Selma scavenger hunt will occur to focus Depot The Friends of the Selma Library will veterans living and deceased will be on Selma’s various building styles This 5K run will emulate the very have book displays, children story times recognized. These events will happen in throughout its history. This event will popular Selma Railroad Days 5K run and adult discussions about Selma and and around the gazebo in Downtown take place at the Town Hall gazebo. that happens every October. T-shirts writers who have influenced Selma Selma behind Town Hall at 114 N. and trophies will be handed-out to throughout the decades. Dates, times, Raiford St. October 7 participants. The course will weave and themes will be announced soon Railroad Days around the downtown Selma business and all programs will take place at the July 4 Guided historical and architectural area and will be a dog-friendly run. Visit library, at 305 N. Pollock St. Call 919- A 4th of July Celebration and Dinner tours will be offered throughout the https://app.racereach.com/r/polar-bear- 975-1411 for more details. at the Depot day during Selma’s annual big bash that run for more information. Join the town in their day-long 4th of is the Railroad Days Festival. Events April 22-23, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July street party while reviving some will take place at the Max G. Creech Dinner at the Depot, 7 p.m. “Selma in the Spring” & Historical old-time events from Selma’s past like Selma Historical Museum at 104 W. These dinners will be ticketed and Homes Tour the “Melon, Tomato, and Better Baby Anderson St. during museum hours and held at the Selma Railroad Museum. A pageant of period costumes and Fair.” The evening will end with another tours that day are free. The Railroad This will be the first of six to be held historical hats will grace the streets of Dinner at the Depot at 7. Days celebration takes places downtown throughout the year to celebrate the Selma, offering a beautiful setting for and includes live entertainment, food 150th anniversary. a photo opportunity and subsequent August 5, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. vendors, arts and crafts vendors, rides, Chili Cook-off special events, the Selma Railroad 5K February 13-17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. contest for the best-looking photo. The A big downtown summer shindig Run, Caboose Run, parade, pageant, Selma & Black History Month annual historical homes & gardens tour centering on food: chili cook-off, and much more! Speakers from the Selma Historical will also take place. Artists volunteering barbeque cook-off and a pecan Museum will present programs about from the Johnston County Arts Council pie contest. Prizes will be awarded November 1-30 local, prominent black residents who will be positioned at each location and musical groups will provide Family History Days had an impact on Selma from its demonstrating and displaying their entertainment throughout the day Oral history videos of a cross-section founding to the present. Writers and artistry. The tour will begin at the Max including a “battle of the bands.” This of Selma’s senior citizens will be made historians who have published works G. Creech Selma Historical Museum. event will also be at the Town Hall and have several showings throughout on Selma will conduct interactive May 6, 13, & 21 gazebo. the month. Selections will be added lectures and media presentations on the Selma Police, Fire and EMS to the 150th anniversary celebration history of Selma with a Q&A and light Recognition September 23, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. time capsule that will be buried at the refreshments to follow at each event. Selma’s police and emergency programs Farm Day end of the year. This project is being Events will take place at the Max G. will be hosting open houses, as well Selma was an important farm town organized by Ray Jaklitsch with the Max Creech Selma Historical Museum at as vehicle and equipment displays. hub for nearly 100 years. Farm day G. Creech Selma Historical Museum, 104 W. Anderson St. during museum Reunions and recognition of past will be in conjunction with the Kenly contact him for more information hours. Contact Eric Jackson for more members will be a highlight of the Tobacco Farm Life Museum and will at 919-333-4899 or email him at information at 919-333-4899. month. In addition, through the Selma have various farm crafts, tools and crops [email protected].

More information will become available on each event as things are finalized moving into the new year and the 150th celebration. For more information about the town’s anniversary, contact Dina Flowers at 919-291-1428 or email her at [email protected].

26 | JOHNSTON NOW Shanna Says The year of effort Each year, rather than a resolution, I adopt a word buy more, and once that I hope will represent the year ahead. it’s invested, we can’t Our family has experienced the “year of change” get it back. This year, I and the “year of wellness” in the past. Though, I plan to spend my effort warn you to put your seat belt on if you ever decide only on the things that to invite the universe to bring change upon you add meaning to my life for a year. Sometimes you get much more than you and bring joy to those expect! around me. This year, you’ll find For this new year, effort is the word that resonates 2 Shanna Capps me representing J-Now, most strongly to me. Many times, we think of 017 [email protected] HAPPY effort as only the dedication or willingness we put 017 volunteering with forth. However, sometimes evaluating where effort worthy local causes, is not needed changes us the most. helping small businesses grow, seeing as many movies as possible with my son (because it’s his The effort required to run a small business, like NEW YEAR! favorite thing to do) and playing video games for those who you see in this magazine, is tremendous. more hours than I should admit with my husband. In most cases, the business owner plays every role there is — from receptionist to president to janitor. Those are things that bring me joy. These are the ways that my effort should be spent. Randy and I can verify that from our own experience off of water slides, that’s totally realistic!) or worrying here at Johnston Now. These small businesses are about eight different negative potential outcomes for When you see me out and about, ask me if I’m creating magic for our community, and that’s effort a single scenario that may never happen. sticking to my goals for the year of effort, and I well spent. challenge you to find a word that describes your goals In the year of effort, I’m going to release myself from for 2017 as well. I’ve been known to expend far too much energy the burden of putting energy into areas such as these. worrying about things that aren’t worthy of my effort. Happy New Year! Our effort is precious, much like our time. We can’t I am guilty of having unrealistic fears (except falling

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JANUARY 2017 | 27 BUSINESS PROFILE – The Serving Spoon Pine Level business serves up good food, community spirit By Randy Capps PINE LEVEL — It’s a sunny winter morning on Main Street, and inside The Serving Spoon, Joyce Jenkins is hard at work in her kitchen. She’s racing from the oven to the counter, back to the mixer and then to the front door with the keys to let in a couple of visitors. The Serving Spoon isn’t a restaurant, although with its small town charm and excellent food, it certainly could be. It’s a catering service, and judging by the pace at which she’s zooming around her kitchen, it’s a busy one. “We do weddings, banquets, retirement parties, baby showers, bridal showers,” she said. “Basically, we’re off-premises caterers.” When she’s not busy bringing fresh, made-from- scratch food to local events, she’s making it for The Serving Spoon On the Go program. Inside her shop, against the wall to the right, is a freezer. That freezer is filled with ham rolls, spaghetti, lasagna, chicken tetrazzini, fettuccine alfredo and pot pies. Or at least it will be when Joyce gets back to the kitchen. “My concern is about the children,” she said. “I worry about kids having to eat everything through a drive- thru. I have a nephew, and he knows the menus by heart. He came to spend the summer with me, when he came, he got up that morning and said, ‘are we going to McDonald’s for breakfast or Chick-Fil-A?’ I said, ‘no, we’re going to go in the kitchen and have breakfast.’ He didn’t really know what that was about.” It was a process, but she eventually won him over. “That’s my biggest concern,” she said. “Mom’s reaching over the seat and handing a bag to the back. Joyce Jenkins making the bread for her signature ham rolls. I wanted to do the meals because they’re free from preservatives. They’re low sodium. They don’t have Photo by Shanna Capps any of the high fructose corn syrup, which causes kids to gain unnecessary weight. This way, they can get a satisfy the stomach. seven large orders of spaghetti and five small ones, nice home-cooked meal. “They can walk in here and pick it up,” she said. “And four large lasagnas and a small one, four large orders of chicken tetrazzini and two small ones, five alfredos, “The smells can permeate the house. Because that’s go home and pop it in the oven. That’s the premise of eight pot pies and 22 orders of yeast rolls. what I grew up on. I could walk in the door and The Serving Spoon On the Go. Convenience, good know what time of the day or year it was because of food and fast.” “I got up this morning and, in my prayer time, I the smell. And I want them to be able to experience The holiday season, with the extra parties and busier just asked God for the strength to get through the that. than usual social schedules, was a busy one for Joyce holidays,” she said. “I have to pray hard every year. The blessings that come to you, you ask for them, “It seems like a little thing, but when a child can and her husband, Wayne. and then they come. And you’re like ‘oh my goodness come into the house and smell fresh baked bread or Wayne helps out around the shop and on catering what was I thinking?’” cookies, those smells stick with you throughout your events, which lets Joyce spend more time whipping life. That’s what happened to me. I got into cooking up dishes. Cooking has been on Joyce’s mind since she was a because of the smells.” little girl in her mother’s kitchen. In addition to a full catering schedule, the demand for And instead of busy moms and dads creating those the On the Go service was high. In one week before “I started cooking when I was nine years old,” she aromas on their own, they can stop by Joyce’s place Christmas, Joyce produced 30 orders of ham rolls said. “My mother, my grandmother and all of my and pick up a dinner sure to tickle the nose — and (highly recommended by the Johnston Now staff), great aunts were all very good cooks. My mother

28 | JOHNSTON NOW was welcomed into the Pine Level community and has come to love being there. Although she was born in Smithfield, she grew up in Philadelphia. “When I first came over here, I didn’t know a soul,” she said. “I started working and people would come by and stop and say, ‘what are you going to do in there?’ I was kind of skeptical to tell them, because I didn’t know how they’d receive it. “But they welcomed me with open arms. One lady in town, Mrs. Freddie Creech, she was one of my first customers. She called me, and said, ‘hi, I’m Freddie Creech and I hear that you opened up that place downtown.’ She said, ‘I’m having a little party for some of my close friends out at the Hinnant Vineyards.’ She didn’t tell me that she was part owner.” Joyce Jenkins shows two On the Go meals ready to be popped in the oven. She was wondering if Joyce could make black-eyed peas for New Year’s. Photo by Shanna Capps “I said, ‘yes ma’am, I do,” Joyce said. “She said, ‘I’d liked to bake and I always wanted to help. I wanted schedule a good, old fashioned tea party. like to have some black-eyed peas and some of those to get in there and help because she made it look so ham biscuits that everybody’s talking about.’ She kind Inside the shop in the corner is a Hoosier cabinet that interesting. of introduced me to other people. belonged to her mother. On it are tea cups, saucers “I’ve seen moms go in that kitchen all crazy trying to and kettles — ready for a gathering at a moment’s “Terry, from across the street at the hardware store, make it happen and they’re not really doing anything. notice. she came and got some of my ham rolls and started My mother would go in the kitchen and move around taking them around. Then, I go to the Town Market “I wanted to offer something for little girls to make with such ease. It was amazing. to grocery shop, and when you walk in the door, them feel special,” she said. “So they can get dressed everybody’s like ‘good morning, or hey, how are you!’ “She would let me come in — she never told me up, come to a really nice place and learn a little Coming out of Philly, because I grew up in Philly, to go play or anything. She would be making old etiquette at the same time.” that’s a different world. fashioned corn bread, where you pat it out and fry it At these parties, she shares something else with her in the pan, and that was the prettiest thing I’d ever “They welcomed us with open arms. They have been guests, too. seen.” so supportive in so many ways. The best thing about “At the tea parties, I use a Styrofoam cup, a paper this business is the relationships you build. Because if Her mother let her try making one, and a chef was cup and the tea cup,” she said. “I give them a little you get one customer and you do one event for them, born. story about how they want to be treated and how if they really enjoy that event, you wind up becoming She passed on her love of cooking to her daughter, they think about themselves. I tell them to pick up a part of their family.” Charlise Johnson, a Smithfield-Selma High graduate the Styrofoam cup and tear it up, and they tear it up. So, she’s rushing around her kitchen so her “family” who owns a cake baking business in Norcross, Ga. Then, I tell them to pick up the paper cup and tear it doesn’t have to. The two of them appeared on the Food Network up. I ask them, ‘can you tear that one up?’ And they show “Cake Wars,” with Joyce serving as her say, ‘no, not as easily.’ “I have some clients where I’ve done their wedding, daughter’s assistant. baby showers, bridal showers — all of that. It just “Then, I have them pick up the tea cup and they act warms my heart to be part of that family. When you The two finished second in the competition, thanks in like they’re afraid to touch it. Then I say, ‘this is what prepare food, you know that old saying? The way to part to an impressive Garfield themed cake. you want to be. You want to be treated like china. You a man’s heart is through his stomach. That works for That’s not the only way Joyce has paid her love of want to be handled gently, treated with respect and everyone. If you prepare good food, and you present cooking forward, either. made to feel special.’” it well and you give good service, you’re going to have The Serving Spoon is also a place where one can Much like the young ladies at her tea parties, Joyce good business.”

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JANUARY 2017 | 29 Every Monday, 6-8 p.m. Every Third Friday, 6-9 p.m. Monday, Jan 9, 6:30 p.m Every Friday, 11 to 1 Free Carriage Rides Pajama Story Time Angels on a Mission Food Pantry Downtown Smithfield Mary Duncan Public Library, Benson Lighthouse Christian Fellowship, 9856 Hwy 210, The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation Put on your PJ’s and bring your young one to the Four Oaks hosts free carriage rides, starting on the corner Mary Duncan Public Library’s Pajama Story Time. This organization helps feed families in need in of Third and Market, around the beautiful, historic Johnston County. It is also in need of volunteers. downtown area each month. Have dinner and Monday, Jan. 9 For more information, contact John Jernigan at drinks at one of the locally owned restaurants, Healthy Kids Program 919-320-7387. catch a movie at the Howell Theatre and enjoy HealthQuest Fitness and Wellness Center, some small town charm! Smithfield Every Tuesday 7 a.m The HealthQuest Fitness & Wellness Center offers Cleveland School Rotary Club Monday, Jan 2, 4 p.m a 12-week exercise program designed specifically Cleveland Draft House, Garner Chamber Women’s Business Network (CWBN) for children and teens to keep them active and Cleveland School Rotary Club meets weekly and Smithfield-Selma Chamber of Commerce healthy. The American College of Sports Medicine serves the citizens of the 40/42 area of Johnston The Chamber Women’s Business Network (CWBN) recommends that all children have at least 60 County and Garner. focuses on the development of professional women minutes of physical activity per day, but many through events that support scholarships for children are not getting this. For more information Every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. continued educational opportunities for women. on the program, and for pricing, call 919-938-7581 Story Time They hold approximately three major events a year or apply online at johnstonhealth.org/healthquest. James Bryan Creech Library, Four Oaks and are responsible for planning the events and Come out for story time at the library each soliciting sponsorships. For more information, call Tuesday, Jan. 10, 6-9 p.m. Wednesday morning. For more information, call 919-934-9166. How to Write a Small Business Plan (919) 963-6013. Johnston Community College Small Business Center Friday, Jan 6, 10 a.m A strong business plan is a critical part of business Every Thursday, 4-6 p.m. Museum Coffee Hour success. Set yourself up for the success of your Write-In at Grapes & Grounds Benson Museum of Local History small business with proper planning. This workshop Johnston County Writers Group Join us at the Benson Museum of Local History covers the basics you need to put together a Socialize, write or critique over coffee with for a coffee hour. Free coffee and snacks will be business plan that will assist you with start-up members of The Johnston County Writers served. Come tour the museum and visit with and funding your business. To register, contact the Group. For more information, email Cindy at friends. Small Business Center at 919-209-2224 or [email protected]. 919-209-2015 or email them at [email protected].

Add your organization’s events to the community calendar at JohnstonNow.com or email us at [email protected]. For the full community calendar with hundreds of area events, visit JohnstonNow.com

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30 | JOHNSTON NOW Thursday, Jan. 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan 20, 8 p.m Friday, Jan. 27, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Memoir Your Way,” Johnston County Writers Group The Blackpack in “All Laughs Matter” 2017 Bridal Expo Selma Public Library The Clayton Center The Farm, Batten Road, Selma Retired educator Gary Ridout facilitates this group. Veteran comedians Vince Morris, BT and Billy D. Mark your calendars for the 3rd Annual Bridal Expo They will discuss journaling and a new book, Washington take a good-natured, often brutally at The Farm. This event will be perfect for brides to “Memoir Your Way: Tell Your Story through Writing, honest look at the national political spectrum sample cakes & catering, view photography options Recipes, Quilts, Graphic Novels and More.” Bring and celebrate our differences one joke at a time. and florists, check out DJs and so many other a journal entry you don’t mind sharing with others. Join the Blackpack as they chip at the walls vendors. Venue tours will be conducted every hour Group meets the second Thursday of every month of racial and social stereotypes with a steady beginning at 11:30 a.m. Cost is $7 in advance and with guest speakers, critique sessions and craft stream of laughter. For tickets, log on to etix.com/ $10 at the door. To register, visit thefarm.typeform. talks. Free and open to the public. ticket/v/1959/the-clayton-center?cobrand=theclay com/to/Lu1D0Z toncenter. Saturday, Jan 14, 10 a.m Saturday, Jan 28, 10 a.m Building a Backyard Bird Feeder Saturday, Jan. 21, 9 a.m. A-Mazing Water Howell Woods, Four Oaks 5K Polar Bear Run and Dinner at the Depot Howell Woods First we will iIdentify what birds visit feeders during Town of Selma Imagine turning on your water tap and having this time of year and the appropriate diet they need This 5K run will emulate the very popular Selma everything that you dumped into the gutter last to make it through the cold winter. Then, create a Railroad Days 5K run that happens every October. week flow into your glass. This program will very simple feeder for you to take home to your T-shirts and trophies will be handed-out to describe urban forms of pollution, provide reasons backyard! $10/person. To register please email participants. The course will weave around the why people should monitor what they put on [email protected] or call the Learning downtown Selma business area and will be a their lawns or in the streets, and identify ways to Center, (919) 938-0115. dog-friendly run. Visit https://app.racereach.com/r/ treat urban runoff. Guests will also participate in polar-bear-run for more information. an activity where they will guide a drop of water Tuesday, Jan. 17, 6-9 p.m. through a maze of “drainage pipes” to learn How to Get Financing for Your Small Business Saturday, Jan. 21, 7 p.m. how actions in the home and yard affect water Johnston Community College Small Business Dinner at the Depot quality. $15/person. To register please email Center Town of Selma [email protected] or call the Learning Are you exploring financial options for starting These dinners will be ticketed and held at the Center, (919) 938-0115. or maintaining a small business? If so, this is a Selma Railroad Museum. This will be the first of seminar that you don’t want to miss. During this six to be held throughout the year to celebrate the Saturday, Jan 28, 7 p.m seminar learn important information on what it 150th anniversary. Motown Soul Groove takes to get funding for your small business. Learn Rudy Theatre, Selma what the banks and lenders expect from you as Tuesday, Jan. 24, 6-9 p.m. Join the Nu-Tones Band, Dale Bryce, Brandy the business owner. To register, contact the Small Basic Bookkeeping for Your Small Business Parker and a few other special guests for a night of Business Center at 919-209-2224 or 919-209- Johnston Community College Small Business Motown Soul! For more information, 2015 or email them at [email protected]. Center call 919-202-9927. Do you know the basic bookkeeping methods Friday, Jan 20, 7:30 a.m needed to run a business? Join this session to Tuesday, Jan. 31, 6-8 p.m. Chamber Coffee Connections learn from an expert what it takes to effectively N.C. Wages and Hours for Your Small Business Smithfield-Selma Chamber of Commerce manage the finances of your business. Even if you Johnston Community College Small Business A structured networking event that takes the use an Accountant or CPA, you need to understand Center guesswork out of networking. Each month, some of the basics. To register, contact the Small The N.C. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour attendees will have the opportunity to introduce Business Center at 919-209-2224 or 919-209- Division will provide an informative presentation themselves and their business to the entire group. 2015 or email them at [email protected]. to the seminar attendees regarding the minimum Each session will include relevant business topics wage, overtime, wage payment, youth employment that will be discussed in small groups. For more and recordkeeping requirements of the N.C. Wage details, call 919-934-9166. and Hour Act. This is a must for all existing or potential small businesses. To register, contact the Small Business Center at 919-209-2224 or 919-209-2015 or email them at [email protected].

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