At American Leadership Academy Johnston, 8-year-old Janson Herring is known as a funny third grader who loves baseball.

Now his Clayton family is preparing for treatment after learning he may have diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, a rare pediatric brain tumor.

Final pathology results are pending, leaving the diagnosis uncertain.

Janson is receiving care through Duke Children’s Hospital, where his family expects radiation therapy and is exploring clinical trials.

Steroids are helping his symptoms, though he now uses a wheelchair at home.

As friends and neighbors provide meals, groceries, and donations, his family says Janson is still finding ways to make people laugh.

Incredible Business Networking (IBN) hosts its popular Coffee Connection event in Clayton, NC on the first Tuesday of every month from 9 to 10 a.m. at 9Bar Coffeehouse.

The event is completely free to attend — no membership, dues, or registration required.

Early birds can start connecting at 8:30 a.m. during pre-event networking, with the main program running until 10 a.m. and an optional post-event mixer wrapping up at 10:30 a.m.

Read to Grow Johnston County has launched its fifth annual Attendance Awareness Month Poster Contest, inviting preschool through fifth-grade students to creatively showcase why showing up to school matters.

Open to public, private, charter, and homeschool students, the contest judges entries on theme, design, and creativity.

Winners will receive a gift pack and have their artwork featured on Read to Grow's social media and displayed at their schools.

The Johnston County Board of Commissioners officially proclaimed September 2026 as Attendance Awareness Month.

Writers connected to Johnston County have a special opportunity this year to gain recognition for their work.

The project welcomes a variety of formats—essays, poems, stories, and historical entries—as long as they relate to Johnston County’s people or places.

The Johnston County Heritage Center will publish its third Literary and Historical Journal, featuring both established and fresh local voices.

Submissions open in mid-September, close by late October, and both adult and junior writers—especially high schoolers—are encouraged to share their creativity.

The Clayton Center will host a local vendor event on October 1, 2026, from 4–8 p.m., bringing together small businesses while raising funds for a meaningful cause.

The four-hour, public event is designed to support local vendors and benefit Harbor House of JoCo, a private nonprofit in Johnston County dedicated to serving victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Benson’s haunted walking tours offer more than just a scare—they invite locals and visitors to experience a slice of small-town history under the cover of night.

As dusk settles, groups gather on Main Street, buzzing with anticipation for tales of restless spirits and historic oddities.

Guides unveil new routes this season, weaving past century-old landmarks and tracing stories that once unsettled generations.

Benson’s 77th annual Mule Days brought crowds downtown Sept. 24–27 for four days of agricultural tradition, family activities and community pride.

Pleasant weather drew visitors from Johnston County and beyond, and Saturday’s parade filled Main Street with spectators.

Mule competitions kept the festival’s namesake animals in the spotlight, while rodeo events, carnival rides, live music and vendors gave visitors plenty to explore.

At American Leadership Academy Johnston, 8-year-old Janson Herring is known as a funny third grader who loves baseball.

Now his Clayton family is preparing for treatment after learning he may have diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, a rare pediatric brain tumor.

Final pathology results are pending, leaving the diagnosis uncertain.

Janson is receiving care through Duke Children’s Hospital, where his family expects radiation therapy and is exploring clinical trials.

Steroids are helping his symptoms, though he now uses a wheelchair at home.

As friends and neighbors provide meals, groceries, and donations, his family says Janson is still finding ways to make people laugh.

Ghost tours offer a different way to explore downtown Clayton, NC, where familiar streets become the setting for stories of haunted history.

HURRY !!! Before they are all Sold Out.

A walk along Main Street can make residents and visitors look twice at the buildings and sidewalks they pass every day.

Clayton residents considering separation or divorce can learn how to gather information without crossing legal boundaries at a free online workshop on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.

The session runs from 7 to 8 p.m. Eastern time and is hosted by Triangle Divorce Lawyers and 303 Alpha Investigations.

Presenters will cover financial, household, digital, and public information, along with ways to preserve and organize evidence responsibly.

Clayton, NC is earning attention for its dynamic classical piano concerts that unite leading musicians and enthusiastic audiences.

The First Baptist Church of Smithfield will host a series of performances beginning October 1st that will resonate with music lovers throughout Johnston County.

This season’s performances showcase solo and collaborative pieces, offering a deep dive into classical music traditions.

Clayton, NC is buzzing as the annual food festival returns, promising an energetic celebration of international flavors downtown.

Attendees can savor unique dishes from over 15 countries, including Asian, Middle Eastern, European, and Latin American specialties, all crafted by local chefs and vendors.

Live music, exciting games, and a crowd-pleasing silent auction round out the program, while multicultural performances showcase the town’s inclusive spirit.

Clayton is brimming with excitement as the annual community arts festival returns downtown, inviting everyone to immerse themselves in vibrant creativity.

This beloved event gathers local artists, musicians, and makers, all eager to connect and share fresh perspectives.

The festival is free, making it an accessible and welcoming showcase for all ages.

Live demonstrations will allow visitors to watch painters, potters, and craftspeople create art in real-time.

Clayton, NC’s beloved haunted house returns this October, delivering spine-tingling frights and laughter for locals ready to dive into Halloween fun.

The expansive farm transforms every Friday and Saturday night, drawing thrill-seekers from Johnston County and beyond eager to test their courage.

Now a cherished Clayton tradition, the haunted house is a Halloween rite for the community—guaranteeing thrills, tasty snacks, and lasting memories all October long.

The Clayton farmers market has become a vibrant centerpiece for the local community, drawing residents from across North Carolina each Saturday to 348 E. Main Street.

The scene bursts with the aroma of fresh bread, ripe peaches, and brewing coffee, while stalls showcase a colorful array of seasonal produce.

Area farmers and artisans proudly offer everything from organic greens and sweet strawberries to hand-poured candles and unique soaps.

Halloween in Clayton, NC promises extra excitement this year, thanks to the annual costume swap and the highly anticipated spooky story contest at Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library.

Children are invited to express their creativity through a variety of festive events, including the chance to trade for new-to-them costumes from racks overflowing with playful choices.

The swap is open to all, and families can take home costumes without donating, making the tradition inclusive for every child.

Moo Moos Around the World is coming to The Woman's Club of Clayton on Saturday, October 3rd from 7 PM to 10 PM — and it's anything but ordinary.

This year's signature event takes the beloved Moo Moos & Margaritas concept on an international adventure, with guests whisked away to surprise destinations like Mexico, Jamaica, Morocco, and Japan — all in one evening.

October brings Kenly families a chance to slow down and enjoy time together at Sonlight Farms.

The farm plans to welcome the public every Saturday in October 2026, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For households balancing school and work, a Saturday visit may be easier to fit into the fall calendar.

The Kenly Public Library is a vital community hub, welcoming visitors of all ages with a broad range of services and resources.

Computer access is available to all, with extra guidance for younger users. Open board meetings give the community a chance to be heard.

Every Tuesday and Wednesday, you have Story Hour for the little ones.

The historic games event at Kenly’s Tobacco Farm Life Museum continues to unite the community, inviting residents of all ages to rediscover time-honored pastimes.

Families can test their skills at classic favorites like marbles and horseshoes, surrounded by laughter and friendly competition.

Admission is always free, drawing growing excitement and rekindling a shared joy in tradition.

Princeton’s public library has become a vibrant community hub, offering diverse events for families, children, and adults year-round.

Story Time draws pre-first-grade kids weekly for stories, crafts, and lively activities—sometimes featuring special guests or unique offsite adventures to keep little ones and parents engaged.

On the last Monday of each month, Spanish Story Time celebrates cultural diversity and invites more families to join the fun.

Live music is on the calendar in Princeton as Chad Thompson returns to Bread & Bottle Princeton on Friday, October 2.

The public performance begins at 7 PM and runs for three hours, leaving plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the evening.

Bread & Bottle is at 120 South Pine Street, making the show a close-to-home option for Princeton residents and a reason for visitors to spend Friday night in town.

Princeton Volunteer Fire Department is gearing up for an exciting community milestone.

Planning is officially underway for the 17th annual "Feel the Burn" 5K/10K road race and the 2026 Community Day and Open House.

Riders and spectators can head to All Around Performance Horses at 594 Old Beulah Road in Selma for an evening of exhibitions and jackpot competition.

Gates open at 5:30 PM, with admission costing $3 per person.

Participants must bring documentation of a negative Coggins test.

A pre-show clinic is being offered to help riders prepare for Saturday's competition, featuring an hour and a half of pattern practice followed by an hour and a half of cow work.

The event is open to everyone, but space is limited — so early preregistration is strongly encouraged.

Ranch horse shows in Selma will put versatile horses and riders to the test in a one-day event open to the public.

Hosted by All Around Performance Horses, Caroline Snow-Dodson and Jessica Lee, the show takes place at 594 Old Beulah Road.

Classes include ranch cutting, ranch roping, boxing, conformation, horsemanship, ranch rail, ranchmanship and trail.

Jackpot reining offers a listed 70% payout.

The Railroad Days Festival returns for its 51st year, celebrating Selma, NC’s rich rail history and vibrant community spirit.

Downtown Selma comes alive with a festive parade, welcoming locals and visitors to a weekend packed with tradition and excitement.

Food trucks serve up Southern barbecue and gourmet bites, keeping everyone satisfied throughout the festivities.

This year’s event spotlights new businesses and revitalized historic storefronts, bringing a fresh pulse to downtown Selma.

Selma Railroad Days is gearing up for its 51st annual celebration, and parade applications are now open!

Applications are available now and can be submitted online through the official Selma, NC website.

Whether you're a longtime participant or joining the parade for the first time, Selma Railroad Days promises to be a memorable community celebration worth being part of.

Selma Railroad Days 2026 is rolling in with a classic car show hosted by the Southland Car Club, and it's shaping up to be a highlight of the annual celebration.

The event takes place Saturday, October 3rd, starting at 12:30 PM in Downtown Selma, featuring chrome, muscle, and classic rides from across the region.

Admission is completely free, making it a perfect outing for the whole family.

The show is part of 51 years of Selma Railroad Days tradition — a beloved community staple that keeps growing every year.

Selma's tastiest competition is back — and registration is officially open for the Selma Firefighters' Association BBQ Cook-Off, part of the 51st Annual Selma Railroad Days Festival.

Teams can enter for just $40 and will fire up their grills at the Selma Fire Department Parking Lot on Friday, October 2nd.

Cooking kicks off Friday morning, with the Taster's Choice Competition at 5:30 PM and champions crowned at 8:00 PM.

The weekend kicks off Friday, October 2nd at 6 PM with the legendary The Tams, bringing their signature sound to downtown Selma.

On Saturday at 3 PM, Southern rock fans can catch Gimme Back My Skynyrd before the night truly ignites.

Organizers have officially announced Rev★On – The Foreigner Experience as the first main headliner, taking the stage Saturday, October 3rd from 7–8 PM in downtown Selma.

Model train lovers and families won't want to miss one of the standout attractions at this year's Selma Railroad Days festival.

The Model Train Shows & Displays event is coming to both the Selma Civic Center and the Selma Historic Union Depot — and best of all, admission is completely free.

Presented by the Southeastern Train Collectors Association and the North Raleigh Model Railroad Club, the event runs Friday, October 2nd from 1–5 PM and continues Saturday, October 3rd starting at 9 AM.

A fan-favorite attraction is returning to Railroad Days in Downtown Selma!

The Trackless Train will roll through the streets, giving families a fun, festive way to take in all the excitement of the event.

The ride is set for Saturday, October 3rd, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, giving kids and adults plenty of time to climb aboard and enjoy the experience.

Smithfield, NC is stepping up its fight against prediabetes with expanded local health initiatives focused on prevention and education.

Rising cases of type 2 diabetes risk have prompted many families to rethink their wellness routines and daily choices.

A new lifestyle change program recently opened on N. Brightleaf Blvd., welcoming adults 18 and older who are living with or at risk for prediabetes.

Smithfield is bursting with anticipation as the annual scholarship pageant returns, offering fresh opportunities for local high school students.

This year’s event focuses on female students from Johnston County, inviting them to demonstrate their talent, leadership, and individuality while competing for valuable scholarships.

The pageant honors hometown legend Ava Gardner, whose enduring legacy inspires participants to embrace authenticity and confidence.

For Johnston County families, dog adoption fees cover more than the trip home: they include veterinary care that helps a new companion get started.

Puppy fees range from $450 to $550 and include spaying or neutering, microchipping, three rounds of distemper and parvovirus vaccinations, a rabies shot, fecal testing and initial deworming.

Puppies also receive a first dose of heartworm, flea and tick prevention, health screenings and vaccinations at Harmony Animal Rescue Clinic, plus food to ease the transition.

Adult dog fees range from $200 to $450 and include surgery, a microchip, age-appropriate vaccinations, testing, deworming and current preventive care.

Heartworm treatment is provided when an adult dog tests positive.

Highly desirable dogs cost $550 to $650, with the same listed adult medical services.

Before adopting, ask about medical records, upcoming doses and whether the dog’s temperament fits your household; food, supplies and veterinary costs continue after adoption day.