Downtowns are more than storefronts and sidewalks — they’re where a community’s history, identity, and future come together. In this Meet Your Neighbor feature, we’re excited to introduce Heidi Gilmond, Executive Director of the Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation. Heidi brings decades of experience in business development and community-building, and a deep appreciation for the role downtowns play in shaping vibrant, connected towns. In this conversation, Heidi shares

At Local70, we believe a strong community is built on people who care for one another. Access to quality healthcare—and the neighbors who help make it possible—matters deeply to how a place thrives. In this installment of our Meet Your Future Neighbor series, we’re honored to introduce Allison Strickland, Director of the Johnston Health Foundation. Allison’s work sits at the intersection of compassion, access, and community investment—ensuring that healthcare in Johnston Coun

At Local70, we believe that every great place begins with people — the ones who live here, the ones who invest here, and the ones who imagine what’s possible long before a single foundation is poured. Eastfield in Selma is one of those places. It’s not just a development project; it’s a regional catalyst — bringing new jobs, new retailers, new dining options, and a new sense of destination to Johnston County. We sat down with Kevin Dougherty of AdVenture Development — the dev

At Local70, we love highlighting the businesses that make Smithfield such a special place to live, work, and visit. This month, we’re shining a spotlight on DeWayne’s — a local favorite known for turning every season into an experience. From their vibrant displays and community traditions to the Southern hospitality that greets you at the door, DeWayne’s has become a cornerstone of Johnston County’s small-business spirit. Shoppers bustle amid festive decorations at DeWayne's,

If you’ve spent any time around Smithfield, chances are you’ve already felt the ripple effects of Dr. Kathleen Coates’ presence—whether through her thriving audiology clinic, her generous community initiatives, or simply her way of making everyone feel like they belong. As the 2024 Jimmy Creech Small Businessperson of the Year, Dr. Coates embodies the spirit of service, legacy, and small-town pride that we’ve seen time and again in our Your Future Neighbor series. Dr. Kathlee

Meet the People Who Make Smithfield Feel Like Home Smithfield isn’t just growing—it’s growing with purpose, built on strong connections and a spirit of possibility. In our ongoing series, Your Future Neighbors, we’re shining a light on the individuals who help shape the character and future of this community. If you didn't catch our first “Your Future Neighbor” featuring Michael Scott, check it out here! It’s always fun connecting with the people who make Johnston County feel