News for Chamber

A New Partnership with JCC Small Business Center and Local Farmers Brings Fresh Food to the Heart of Downtown Smithfield, NC – The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation (DSDC), in partnership with the Johnston Community College Small Business Center and local farmers, is thrilled to announce the launch of the Smithfield Signature Fresh Market! Starting Saturday, June 14th, and continuing ...read more

Johnston County — On Friday, April 4th, the Partnership for Children of Johnston County hosted its inaugural “Fore the Kids” Golf Tournament, successfully raising over $28,000. Participating teams were eager to “putt for a purpose” as they generously gave to support vital initiatives known to enhance the lives of children. While hoping to score big, golfers contributed to essential resources like ...read more

SMITHFIELD, NC - On Thursday, April 10, 2025, Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) held its second annual teacher signing day. The event, mirrored after a sports contract signing ceremony, recognized and celebrated student teachers who have committed to continuing their professional careers as JCPS educators.   This year, more than 60 guests attended the event, with 19 educators signing their ...read more

Smithfield, NC & Selma, NC – April 2025 – The Boys & Girls Clubs of Johnston County recently held a series of art sessions led by local artist Percilla Williams at the Smithfield and Selma Club locations. The sessions allowed Club members to explore women’s history through art while learning to express their creativity and identity through painting.  Thanks to Grassroots Grants awarded by the ...read more

NC Author Barbara Presnell to lead memoir writing workshops May 8-10 in Johnston CountyOn May 8 – 10, Barbara Presnell, author of the newly published Otherwise, I’m Fine: A Memoir (University of South Carolina Press) will lead three memoir writing workshops, an informal coffee with the author, and book-signing in Johnston County, North Carolina. All events are free, and open to the public, ...read more

Smithfield, NC – Leigh Anne Price has been elected president of the NC Association of Directors of Elections (NCADE). Price was sworn in on Monday, March 24, 2025, during the organization's conference in Durham, NC. Price has served as Vice President of the NCADE for two years and has extensive experience in election administration. She currently serves as the director of elections for Johnston ...read more

The Johnston County Coalition of Chambers is pleased to announce the twenty semifinalists who have been selected for their excellence in the classroom. These exceptional educators have demonstrated creativity, innovation, and dedication to shaping the future of Johnston County students. The Teacher of the Year will be named during the 31st Annual Flame for Learning Award Ceremony on Tuesday, April ...read more

Workforce, Transportation and Tariffs Key Concern for Local Business  The Triangle East Chamber recently conducted a survey of its members to identify the most pressing legislative concerns among local businesses. The results highlight key areas where businesses are looking for policy support and improvements that will strengthen the regional economy. Workforce development remains a top ...read more

KS BANK SPONSORED COMMUNITY EVENT FOR ENTREPRENEURS AND SMALL BUSINESSES(Smithfield, NC) – KS Bank was the proud presenting sponsor of the first Harnett Business Resources Summit, hosted by the Dunn, Lillington, Coats, Erwin, and Angier Chambers of Commerce, as well as the Central Carolina Community College Small Business Center. The event provided tools, resources, and insights for entrepreneurs ...read more

The Corporate Transparency Act may require certain U.S. companies to disclose beneficial ownership information to FinCEN to combat financial crimes. While a Texas federal district court’s preliminary injunction puts this requirement on hold, many experts expect that to be overturned. In that event, failure to file could lead to fines of $500 per day, up to a maximum of $10,000, and possible ...read more

SMITHFIELD, NC – Johnston County Early College Academy (JCECA) senior Ashley Jara was chosen to take part in the North Carolina’s Governor’s Page Program. Jara and around 10 other high school students from around North Carolina earned the opportunity to engage in four days of hands-on participation in state government.   Since she was young, Jara has always been fascinated with the government. ...read more

Richmond Community College’s 911 telecommunications program will now be available to students at Johnston Community College after an official agreement was signed by college leaders earlier this week. Dr. Dale McInnis, president of Richmond CC, and Dr. Vern Lindquist, president of JCC, signed off on the partnership on Monday that will allow JCC students to enroll in the online program ...read more

A benefits package is one of the most important factors in attracting and retaining top talent. In order to stay competitive, employers need to be creative in the types of benefits they offer. Traditional health insurance and retirement plans are no longer enough. To really stand out, employers need to offer a more comprehensive benefits package that includes gym memberships, yoga classes, ...read more

Selma Middle welcomes 12 new educators Selma Middle School has welcomed 12 new educators to its halls for the 2015-2016 school year. Joining the team are Tabitha Ammons, Alexander Burgess, Samantha Determan, Patricia Ann Leitner, Michael Llaury, Cynthia Markham, Shawna Marie Phillips, Emily Shelton, Brandon Sullivan, Aaron Tipping, Chrystal Trammell, and Kimberly Whipple. Kimberly Whipple will be ...read more

Presented by Crystal Roberts at the 45th Annual Meeting on January 26th, 2015 The Chamber Athena Award is presented each year to recognize the outstanding achievements of women in the Smithfield-Selma community. A national award, it is presented in over 300 communities and is sponsored locally by Corestaff Services. The Chamber would like to thank Corestaff for their continued sponsorship of this ...read more

Speech Given By Crystal Roberts: Ladies and gentleman, the Smithfield-Selma Chamber is again excited to present the prestigious Athena Award to a well-deserving recipient. This award celebrates the potential of all women as valued members and leaders of the community and honors individuals who strive toward the highest levels of professional accomplishment. Tonight’s recipient is a fierce ...read more