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OUR NEIGHBORS Johnston County Industries program takes in DPAC show Submitted by JCI JCC accepts Bellwether Finalist Award Submitted by JCC On December 3, Johnston County Industries’ Community Integration program participants and their families had the opportunity to attend a showing of Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” at the Durham Performing Arts Center. This box office breaking Broadway musical was presented in a special sensory-friendly performance that was tolerant and supportive for children and adults on the autism spectrum. The performance featured the hit songs. “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” from the original animated television special. Individuals in attendance were able to sing along and participate in the interactive aspects of the show. The spectacular set designs and costumes were vivid, whimsical and reminiscent of the beloved children’s book. Following the performance, individuals and their families enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch at Golden Corral filled with all types of meats, sides and desserts. This group social between the Johnston and Harnett locations was a wonderful day of fellowship and fun. Unique Gifts By Jacquelynn opens in Clayton Submitted by Clayton Chamber of Commerce The Clayton Chamber had a ribbon cutting for a new downtown business, Unique Gifts By Jacquelynn, recently. The business, owned and operated by Jacquelynn Richardson, is located at 325 East Main Street in Clayton. MARCH 2017 | 11 Johnston Community College proudly accepted its 2017 Bellwether finalist award in January at the Community College Futures Assembly in Orlando. JCC was one of 10 community colleges in the nation selected as a finalist in the planning, governance and finance category. JCC was selected for its “One College” organizational philosophy for student success. Even though JCC did not win the category, JCC president David Johnson said he is proud of the College’s commitment to student success which led to the recognition. “We were so privileged to be a part of the 2017 Community College Futures Assembly as a Bellwether Award finalist,” he said. “This independent policy think-tank is one of the premier organizations in the United States which recognizes and promotes effective college programs. “JCC was honored to be selected from hundreds of applications as a Bellwether finalist for our One College philosophy. I was extremely proud of our team of presenters as they represented the entire institution’s work to fulfill student success.”