Young, Clemmons Join Neuse River Writers Leadership Team

SMITHFIELD, N.C. — The nonprofit writers’ organization Neuse River Writers has added two new members to its board of directors during the first quarter of 2026.

Tom Young of Clayton joined the board as vice president. Young is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, the North Carolina Poetry Society and the North Carolina Writers Network. He writes poetry and short stories, primarily in children’s and animal genres, though he says his work often follows wherever the story — or his imagination — leads.

Young regularly participates in “Telling Our Stories,” a weekly breakout group at the Harrison Center for Active Aging in Selma. He also volunteers with Red Barn Rescue and the Johnston County Animal Protection League.

Charles M. Clemmons, who grew up in Clayton and now lives in Durham, joined the board as communications director. Clemmons is an award-winning documentary filmmaker and author of the historical novel Aila’s Journal: A Tale of Southern Reconstruction. He has also been recording the organization’s monthly presentations and assisting with updates to the group’s website. Clemmons is also a member of the North Carolina Writers Network.

Neuse River Writers is a diverse group of authors, writers, filmmakers and other creatives who gather to develop their craft, support one another, and build connections within the writing community.

The organization’s leadership team also includes President Char Vinar of Clayton, Secretary Julie Johnson of Pine Level, Treasurer Dot La Motta of Garner, Membership Director Barbara Crowley of Benson, and Advisor Cindy Brookshire of Pine Level.

The group currently has 45 members and meets the second Thursday of each month from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Public Library of Johnston County and Smithfield, located at 305 E. Market St. in downtown Smithfield.

Monthly meetings are free and open to the public, and annual membership dues are $25.

For more information, visit www.neuseriverwriters.com.