Community
Barrett Penny Named Garner Fire-Rescue’s Next Chief
GARNER – A highly respected and seasoned fire service leader with 27 years of comprehensive experience will become the next chief of the Garner Fire-Rescue Department. Barrett Penny, who has…
You Decide: Can We Repeat The Success Of The 1990s?
By Mike Walden I’m often asked if there is any chance we can create an economy that is growing and adding jobs, where households see their standard of living rising,…
Smithfield Fire Department Takes Delivery Of New Fire Engine
SMITHFIELD — The Smithfield Fire Department took delivery of its new Spartan fire engine on Friday, marking the end of a nearly two-year wait since the truck was ordered. Fire…
Donald “Clyde” Sinclair Park Unveils New Playground
CLAYTON – Donald “Clyde” Sinclair Park is back open to the public, welcoming families and neighbors to enjoy a refreshed playground space with new features designed for play, safety, and…
Elison Jude Smith Becomes First Baby Of The Year At Smithfield Hospital
SMITHFIELD – Morgan Adams and Daniel Smith of Dunn have a reason to celebrate that’s bigger than any New Year’s resolution—the arrival of the first baby of 2026 at UNC…
Couple Kicks Off 2026 With A Bundle Of Joy!
CLAYTON — Johnston County welcomed one of its first babies of 2026 just hours into the New Year. A baby girl was born at UNC Health Johnston in Clayton at…
Clayton’s Employee Of The Year Leads By Helping Others Succeed
CLAYTON – Employees who make the biggest impact are often the ones who quietly support others, share knowledge, and step in when help is needed. The Town of Clayton’s 2025…
Clayton Parks & Recreation Celebrates Third Season Of Journey League
CLAYTON – BJ steps onto the basketball court with focus, looking around for familiar faces before a big smile spreads across his face. As the game starts, he makes a…
Johnston County Adoptees To Access Birth Records Locally In 2026
SMITHFIELD – Beginning January 1, 2026, individuals who were adopted and born in Johnston County will be able to obtain certified copies of their adoptive birth certificates directly from the…
The Magnolia Inn Gains Recognition For Community Role In Clayton
CLAYTON — A boutique inn that opened earlier this year has been recognized by the Clayton Chamber of Commerce for its early growth and involvement in community initiatives. The Magnolia…
Smithfield Begins Planning For Town Manager Transition
SMITHFIELD — The Smithfield Town Council has begun shaping the process to hire the town’s next manager following the announced retirement of Town Manager Michael Scott, who plans to step…
Clayton Library Looks Back At Readers’ Top Picks of 2025
CLAYTON – As we say goodbye to 2025, the Town of Clayton looks back at the books that captivated the attention of nearly 11,500 library cardholders over the past year.…
