NBC17: WakeMed Garner shooting: Officer killed, suspect charged after hospital ER gunfire, officials say
A Wake County hospital police officer killed Saturday morning in Garner was a “hero” who likely prevented other deaths during a struggle with a gunman who shot the officer and was later charged with his murder, according to Garner Police and WakeMed officials.
By: Starletta Watson, Rodney Overton, Haylee Kennedy, Mary SmithPosted: Nov 8, 2025 / 09:48 AM ESTUpdated: Nov 9, 2025 / 08:02 AM EST
A Wake County hospital police officer killed Saturday morning in Garner was a “hero” who likely prevented other deaths during a struggle with a gunman who shot the officer and was later charged with his murder, according to Garner Police and WakeMed officials.
According to law enforcement officials, the shooting occurred around 9 a.m. Saturday at the WakeMed Garner Healthplex on U.S. 70.
A statement from WakeMed said that Officer Roger Smith, 59, of Knightdale, died from his gunshot injuries at WakeMed Raleigh on New Bern Avenue. Authorities said a struggle broke out just before Smith was shot in the emergency department lobby.
‘Shock’ and ‘sadness’ from friends
Steven Moore was a childhood friend of Roger Smith, the two graduating together from Garner Senior High School. The school is now known as Garner Magnet High School.
“It’s just been the whole gamut of shock and disbelief, sadness. Just to think something like that happened in our backyard. You just never think about it,” Moore said.
Friends and support organizations said they were heartbroken over the loss.
“It was just a gut punch, like it always is. You always hope and pray that the officer who is injured in the line of duty is going to pull through, and unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen,” said Lindsay LiCausi, founder of Back the Blue NC.
CBS 17 is working to learn what led up to the struggle between Smith and Martin, while Back the Blue, a non-profit dedicated to helping law enforcement families, is gathering support for Smith’s family.
The group has created a GoFundMe to assist Smith’s family.
“I found out that he was taking care of his elderly mother, and so now my concern is who is going to take care of her and who is going to help step up and support his family now that he is gone,” LiCausi said.
Moore described Smith as the perfect example of what a law enforcement officer should be.
“To me, when I knew him was the epitome of law enforcement. He was compassionate, caring; he wasn’t out here to make a name for himself. He just wanted to do a job and keep the community safe,” Moore said.
As Affordability Impacts Garner, Town Mobilizes to Help Partners Address Food Insecurity
The Town's food drive continues through Nov. 26. We plan to make additional deliveries of donated items to other Garner food pantries over the next three weeks.
The Town's food drive continues through Nov. 26. We plan to make additional deliveries of donated items to other Garner food pantries, including Community of Hope Ministries ,over the next three weeks.
The six dropoff sites (also listed on the flyer) are Town Hall, the Garner Fire Rescue Administration Building, the Garner NC Police Department, Garner Recreation Center, Garner Senior Center and the Public Works complex. Please look for the green recycle bins and food drive signs at each location.
The Town is collecting nonperishable items such as canned fruits and vegetables, beans, cereal, tuna, pasta, rice, peanut butter and more.
Please check the flyer for a full list of desired items.
Garner Wins Statewide Award for Public Art
Garner’s growing efforts to brighten public spaces with art have earned some well-deserved statewide recognition.
The Town recently received the 2025 North Carolina Great Places for Public Art Award from the American Planning Association-North Carolina Chapter during the organization's annual conference in Charlotte on Oct. 15.
Garner Wins Statewide Award for Public Art
Garner’s growing efforts to brighten public spaces with art have earned some well-deserved statewide recognition.
The Town recently received the 2025 North Carolina Great Places for Public Art Award from the American Planning Association-North Carolina Chapter during the organization's annual conference in Charlotte on Oct. 15.
The award, according to the APA-NC Chapter, “values a community's creative side.” To showcase Garner’s new burst of creativity, Planning Department staff submitted an award package titled Downtown Garner Public Art Initiatives that featured public artworks in the Main Street and Garner Road area.
The award submission highlighted these examples:
the Wings of Hope sculpture unveiled earlier this year at the corner of Garner Road and Avery Street;
the In Full Bloom mural on the Full Bloom Coffee building at Main and Purvis Streets;
the Hidden Figures mural honoring some of Garner’s most venerated Black residents on the Locs, Naturals and More Salon and Academy building at Rand Mill and Main Streets;
a new sculpture at the corner of East Garner and Auburn-Knightdale Roads commemorating the Auburn community’s railroad heritage;
newly painted crosswalk art in Downtown in the area around the Garner Recreation Center;
the Art Around Town initiative featuring 23 works installed in public locations in 2021;
and the 2018 Pop-Up Art project, which featured fence posts painted by a cross-section of local residents.
“The Town of Garner’s Historic Downtown stands out as a truly exceptional location for public art due to its vibrant visual expression, deep cultural significance and strong community collaboration,” Planning staff said in the award submission. “What distinguishes this area is the intentional and ongoing partnership between the Town, local artists and the community to cultivate a thriving public art scene. Rather than taking a passive approach, the Town of Garner is proactively supporting and expanding public art initiatives as a key element of Garner’s identity and future growth.”
The award submission cites the “collaborative efforts between Town leadership, the Planning Department, the Public Art Advisory Board and the Downtown Garner Association.”
“From large-scale murals that celebrate the town’s cultural and historical roots to interactive projects like painted crosswalks and community art installations, Garner has prioritized accessibility, inclusivity and creativity in the public realm,” the award submission says.
The Town has ramped up its support for public art considerably in the past year. Most notably, in April the Town and Garner’s Public Arts Advisory Board unveiled the Wings of Hope sculpture by local artist Jeff Hurr. Located at the corner of Garner Road and Avery Street near the Garner Performing Arts Center, this sculpture—the first one ever to be funded by the Town—features bold, upward-reaching branches that are grounded in the natural world but reach up toward the heavens. Wings of Hope is the first piece in a planned future sculpture park on the property at Garner Road and Avery Street.
Over on Main Street, two large-scale murals painted in the past six years have become prominent visual landmarks Downtown. The Hidden Figures mural presents a colorful portrait of a young Black woman surrounded by four smaller portraits honoring influential Black residents throughout Garner’s history. The work blends imagery of local Black churches and references Henry Fort’s historic cabinet shop, the first known business to be established in Garner.
Just down the street is the Life in Bloom mural, which showcases North Carolina’s native birds and wildflowers, layered with motifs from Garner’s railroad heritage. The mural quickly became an iconic visual that has appeared in countless social media posts since its completion in 2019.
The Garner Forward Comprehensive Plan promotes an emphasis on the public realm, and Planning staff routinely suggest public art elements in their reviews. One of the recent fruits of these efforts is the abstract metal sculpture at the corner of Auburn-Knightdale Road and East Garner Road that honors the railroad heritage of the historic Auburn community.
The Town Council celebrated receiving the Great Places for Public Art Award at its Nov. 3 meeting. Council Member Kathy Behringer, who heads the Town’s Public Art Advisory Board and has long championed the cause of public art in Garner, said at the meeting, “Public art is a good thing to have. It makes your town look attractive, but it also makes people smile—and that’s what you want.”
via Town of Garner
Garner Election 2025
Election Day is Tuesday, November 4th.
Learn about the the candidates, their positions, and voting information.
Election Day is
Tuesday November 4th
Learn more about the candidates, their positions,
and voting information at
Known Endorsements
Municipal elections are non-partisan, however, candidates are free to seek endorsements and organizations are free to endorse candidates.
Wake County Democratic Party Endorsements
Gra Singleton
Kelvin Stallings
Learn more about the candidates, their positions, and voting information at
Wake County Republican Party Endorsements
Mike McIver
Patricia Uzzell
Learn more about the candidates, their positions, and voting information at
Garner Citizens for Responsible Growth is a community of our communities, organizing to be heard by the Town of Garner.
Garner Citizens is NON-PARTISAN and NOT AGAINST GROWTH but collectively have serious concerns about HOW Garner is growing and the planning and decision-making being done by the Town.
Poll Philosophy
Those participating in the poll were allowed to select as many candidates as they wanted to (even though only 2 seats are up this election cycle). This was done to let respondents endorse any and all candidates they thought would advance responsible growth practices and policies and give a voice to every respondent.
Percentages are the percentage of respondents that selected that candidate (or option).
Top Issues Cited by Respondents
Responsible Growth and Affordable Housing
Smart Development and Quality Growth
Decreasing Taxes and Managing the Town’s Budget and Fiscal Responsibility/Transparency
Infrastructure Improvements and Preserving the Natural Beauty of Garner
Stopping the The Park/Village at Garner Station
Local vs National Nonsense
Learn more about the candidates, their positions,
and voting information at
Garner Fireman’s Day 2025
Saturday October 4th!
The event will be held at the corner of Benson Road & Main Street. Come help us celebrate this time-honored tradition and enjoy home cooked BBQ, desserts, and other great foods, along with over 50 vendors. Make sure to bring the kids for games, live fire demonstrations and fire safety programs. The trucks will also be on display all day.
Garner’s Annual Fireman’s Festival this year will be Saturday, October 4th from 11:00 am - 6:00 pm.
The event will be held at the corner of Benson Road & Main Street. Come help us celebrate this time-honored tradition and enjoy home cooked BBQ, desserts, and other great foods, along with over 50 vendors. Make sure to bring the kids for games, live fire demonstrations and fire safety programs. The trucks will also be on display all day.
The Annual parade route begins at 2PM starting at Benson & Garner Road headed east, right on New Rand Road, then west on Main Street; ending on St. Mary's Street. Live entertainment by local music acts will begin at 3:30 pm and will continue until 6:00 pm. Please visit GarnerFire.com for more information, including where you can park.
Joseph Sample
Joe Sample
November 7, 1942 — September 15, 2025
Joseph T. Sample, longtime resident of Garner, NC, went home to be with the Lord on September 15, 2025, with his last moments spent peacefully in the arms and comfort of his loving wife.
Though Joe was a West Lafayette, Indiana, native and Purdue University graduate, he lived many lives. From his humble farming roots, to spending a few years in Wyoming as a cowboy, to finding his forever home in Garner, where he was later recognized for his outstanding contributions to the town in August 2024 when he received the James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award.
Joe Sample was a long-time journalist and kept the residents of Garner up to date on local government affairs and other matters of public interest with his weekly paper, the Garner News. He was a dedicated public servant, holding office as a Town Alderman and later serving on the Garner Fire-Rescue Board of Directors up until his passing. He served as the department's last Board President and was instrumental in merging the department into the town government. During Mr. Sample's 17-year tenure on the board, the Garner Fire-Rescue was internationally accredited, as well as receiving a National Insurance Services Office rating of 1 (ISO-1), one of less than 20 out of 1200 such ratings in North Carolina.
While his accomplishments were great, more importantly, Joe found joy in the little things in life. Happiness to him was waking up early every morning to eat breakfast with friends, being his own boss-and everyone else's boss, eating fruit (he loved fruit), traveling to the beach, feeding the backyard deer and other wild animals, sending silly texts to family and friends, riding his John Deere tractors, watching the news, and most of all spending time with his family.
He is survived by and missed dearly by his best friend and wife of 35 years, Angela Sample, and her two daughters, Shawna (Scott) Carroll and Kelli Harnish. Joe and Angela (lovingly referred to as Papaw & Gigi) shared 5 grandchildren together- Sara, Rebecca, Logan (Melissa), Brooklyn, and Braxton, as well as 4 great-grandchildren- Ryan Jo (named after Joe), Aspen, Amari, and one he won't have the chance to meet.
Joe Sample was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn W. Sample and Mary Catherine Sample, as well as his brother James A. Sample. He is survived by two sisters, Louise Hass and Elizabeth (Steve) Yegerlehner, as well as three nephews, one niece, and five great-nieces and nephews.
His visitation was held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. at Bryan Lee Funeral Home, 1200 Benson Rd, Garner, NC 27529
His funeral service was held Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 10:30 A.M. at Aversboro Baptist Church, 1600 Aversboro Rd, Garner, NC 27529. The burial will follow the service at Montlawn Memorial Park, 2911 S. Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27603
Contributions can be made in Joe Sample's name to: Garner Fire Fighters Association, P.O. 441 Garner, NC 27529
A service of Bryan-Lee Funeral Home - Garner.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Joseph Sample, please visit our flower store.
ONE Wake Receives $15,000 Mission Proceeds Grant from Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina
ONE Wake (Organized Neighbors for Empowerment in Wake County), a non-partisan, multi-ethnic community organizing collective, has been awarded a $15,000 Mission Proceeds Grant Phase II from the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina. The grant will support ONE Wake's race reconciliation training initiatives to strengthen the organization's capacity for authentic multi-ethnic community organizing and collaborative ministry work.
Community organizing collective awarded funding to advance race reconciliation training and collaborative ministry initiatives
WAKE COUNTY, NC – September 9, 2025 – ONE Wake (Organized Neighbors for Empowerment in Wake County), a non-partisan, multi-ethnic community organizing collective, has been awarded a $15,000 Mission Proceeds Grant Phase II from the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina. The grant will support ONE Wake's race reconciliation training initiatives to strengthen the organization's capacity for authentic multi-ethnic community organizing and collaborative ministry work.
The Mission Proceeds Grant represents funding from the $8.8 million proceeds of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina's sale of its former Diocesan House. Phase II of the program targets explicitly collaborative projects and partnerships that advance the diocese's mission strategy priorities. ONE Wake will use the grant funding to provide race reconciliation training that builds the foundation necessary for effective cross-racial organizing and systemic change work.
"This grant recognition validates the power of collaborative organizing and interfaith partnership," said Stephon Whitley, ONE Wake Lead Organizer. "By investing in race reconciliation training, we're building the foundation necessary for authentic multi-ethnic organizing that can address systemic inequities affecting all our communities. This training is essential for the deep relationship-building work that makes lasting change possible."
ONE Wake, founded in 2020, is an affiliate of the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF), the nation's largest and oldest network of local faith and community-based organizations. The collective brings together 38 founding member organizations, including six Episcopal churches: Saint Ambrose (Raleigh), Church of the Good Shepherd (Raleigh), St. John's (Wake Forest), St. Mark's (Raleigh), St. Paul's (Cary), and Trinity (Fuquay-Varina), alongside numerous other congregations, associations, and nonprofits.
ONE Wake focuses on developing community members' skills to identify common problems, create workable solutions, and implement systemic changes that achieve the common good. The race reconciliation training will strengthen ONE Wake's ability to build authentic relationships across racial and ethnic lines, essential for effective multi-ethnic community organizing that can address root causes of inequality. Current organizing initiatives include building affordable homeownership at scale across Wake County and addressing food insecurity that affects millions of children annually.
"What we can do is band with other churches, nonprofits, people of goodwill, and work with government and corporations to create a system in which no one goes hungry," explained The Rev. Jemonde Taylor, rector at Saint Ambrose and a founding member of ONE Wake, illustrating the organization's approach to systemic solutions that require authentic cross-racial collaboration.
The Rt. Rev. Sam Rodman, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, noted in the grant announcement that the Diocesan Council is "deeply encouraged by the faithful and creative ways you are living out the Gospel through this ministry" and believes the work "reflects the spirit of resurrection, reconciliation, and renewal that these Mission Proceeds were intended to support." The Diocese has prioritized racial justice as part of its mission strategy, with Bishop Rodman stating that the funding aims to "make a right beginning as we address and continue to reckon with our racial history."
The Diocese's decision to prioritize collaborative partnerships in Phase II funding aligns perfectly with ONE Wake's community organizing model and commitment to racial justice. The grant selection process evaluated applications based on the strength of partnership and collaboration, clarity and viability of budget, and potential community impact. The funding for race reconciliation training directly supports the diocese's ongoing journey toward "Becoming Beloved Community." It addresses the critical need for racial healing and justice work in effective community organizing.
About ONE Wake ONE Wake (Organized Neighbors for Empowerment) is a non-partisan, multi-ethnic, multi-issue community organizing collective affiliated with the Industrial Areas Foundation. Founded in 2020, ONE Wake brings together congregations, associations, and nonprofits across Wake County to identify shared challenges and work collectively toward systemic solutions that serve the common good. The organization emphasizes building authentic relationships across racial and ethnic lines as the foundation for effective community organizing. For more information, visit www.onewake.org.
About the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina The Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, founded in 1817, encompasses central North Carolina and serves approximately 48,000 communicants through 109 parishes. The diocese is known for its extensive grants program, distributing over $1.2 million annually to support mission and ministry work throughout the region. The diocese has prioritized racial reconciliation and justice as key components of its mission strategy and journey toward "Becoming Beloved Community."
Garner Car Finds Internet Fame on 5000 Mile Cross-Country Journey by Donut Media
Epic new video just dropped on Donut with our pal Justin Freeman. I've been waiting for this ever since I heard about it.
This is the first episode of Justin's cross country off-road trip in his '96 Subaru SVX, which until recently was sitting in a Garner backyard. (via TriangleRAD).
Epic new video just dropped on Donut with our pal Justin Freeman. I've been waiting for this ever since I heard about it. This is the first episode of Justin's cross country off-road trip in his '96 Subaru SVX, which until recently was sitting in a Garner backyard. (Source: TriagleRAD).
TriangleRAD is the premier club for owners & fans of the rad automobiles of the '80s & '90s, centered in Eastern & Central North Carolina. Find them on Facebook.
Images via http://www.donut.media/
The popular YouTube channel Donut recently undertook an ambitious project: preparing a 1996 Subaru SVX for a grueling 5,000-mile cross-country journey, a significant portion of which would be off-road.
The car, which had been left to the elements in a field for years, required a complete overhaul to get it trail-ready.
A major part of the SVX's transformation involved custom fabrication to enhance its durability. The team enlisted a professional fabricator to design and build a custom roof rack, tire carrier, snorkel, and robust front and rear bumpers [02:12].
To protect the car's vulnerable underbelly from rocks and other trail hazards, they utilized advanced 3D scanning technology to create bespoke skid plates [03:26]. These additions were crucial for ensuring the car could withstand the rigors of off-road driving and protect its vital components.
Beyond the structural enhancements, the team made key performance and aesthetic upgrades. They fitted the car with Handcook Dino Pro AT2 Extreme tires, known for their off-road capabilities, while keeping the original OEM wheels to maintain a classic, retro look [05:09].
Under the hood, they performed a significant amount of work on the transmission, replacing the flywheel and clutch to handle the increased demands of off-roading [24:20]. These modifications were essential for the car's functionality and to ensure it could handle the long journey ahead.
Suspension was another critical area of focus. After some initial setbacks, they successfully installed new Field Suspension coilovers, specifically designed for rally and long-travel driving [29:21].
This upgrade was vital for improving the vehicle's handling and comfort over rough terrain. In addition to these major overhauls, the Donut crew also performed routine, but essential, maintenance tasks. They installed a new radiator to prevent overheating and replaced the brakes to ensure the car's stopping power was reliable throughout the long trip [10:42].
Despite facing a few challenges along the way, the team has successfully completed the project, getting the Subaru SVX ready for its demanding cross-country adventure.
Judy Bass Selected as Recipient of 2025 James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award
A longtime Garner resident with over 30 years of service to the community has been named the 2025 recipient of the James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award.
Judy Bass was recognized for her tireless work preserving Garner’s history, honoring the area’s veterans and creating meaningful and engaging civic spaces.
A longtime Garner resident with over 30 years of service to the community has been named the 2025 recipient of the James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award.
Judy Bass was recognized for her tireless work preserving Garner’s history, honoring the area’s veterans and creating meaningful and engaging civic spaces.
“Judy Bass has made a lasting and multifaceted impact on the Garner community through decades of volunteer service—most notably, through her leadership in historic preservation by way of the Garner History Museum at the Depot, and her central role in the creation of the Garner Veterans Memorial,” the award nomination said.
“It is a great honor to receive the James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award,” Ms. Bass said. “I never imagined that my name would be in the same group as some Garner legends and some of my heroes and friends. An award such as this can be attributed to friends and others who provided support and inspiration along the journey.”
Ms. Bass, who retired as Garner’s town clerk in 2015 after 18 years of stellar, mostly behind-the-scenes service with the Town, is well known in the community for the countless volunteer hours she has devoted toward making two transformational projects a reality.
Garner Veterans Memorial
“Her most visible and lasting contribution is her leadership on the Garner Veterans Memorial project,” the nomination submission said. “Beginning in 2006, Judy served on the steering committee that oversaw every stage of the memorial—from early vision to community fundraising, design and dedication.”
Ms. Bass played a role in helping to raise over $500,000 for the project, working with a brick sale campaign that continues today as part of the Walkway of Honor.
She also helped organize the dedication ceremony for the memorial in May 2013. The event brought together over 1,000 attendees, military flyovers, elected officials and families of veterans. The memorial, and the citizen-driven initiative to get it funded and built, would be a key success story that helped Garner earn All-America City recognition the month after the dedication.
Today, the memorial—with its numerous engraved panels that honor the fallen and offer historical background on America's armed conflicts—is the backdrop for the Garner Memorial Day observance and plays a significant role in the community's Veterans Day and Independence Day events as well.
The memorial, which also features red-clay earthcasts by world-renowned artist Thomas Sayre, has been recognized by the American Institute of Architects-North Carolina and is listed by veterans organizations as a model of respectful civic remembrance.
“Judy’s work to bring the Veterans Memorial to life has ensured that Garner’s heroes are remembered with the dignity they deserve—not just now but for generations,” the award nomination said.
Garner Area Historical Society
Ms. Bass also has been a longtime leader in the Garner Area Historical Society, having served as president and continuing as a board member of the non-profit.
Under her guidance, the organization was able to transform the historic train depot in Downtown Garner into the Garner History Museum. The depot building had been located on Garner Road and was in poor condition. It was moved to a location at the corner of Pearl and Main streets, underwent extensive renovations and opened in November 2021 as the new focal point of the community's history.
After the museum opened, Ms. Bass oversaw the collection and curation of photos, documents and artifacts "that connect generations of Garner residents to the town’s rich past," the award nomination said.
Ms. Bass is currently leading the campaign to restore the interior of the historic railroad caboose next to the museum. Contributions to that restoration effort can be made by visiting garner-area-historical-society.org.
Just recently, Ms. Bass was named to the Wake County Historic Preservation Commission, where she will bring a Garner perspective to a body that promotes the preservation of important aspects of local culture, history and architecture.
Ms. Bass' decades of volunteer service to Garner also has included work outside of honoring veterans and preserving our town's history. Through the years, she has been involved in causes such as the Caroline Ball Family Foundation and the Community of Hope Ministries' Garner of Hope.
“Judy’s accomplishments—the founding of the Garner History Museum, the effort to restore the historic Caboose and the creation of the Garner Veterans Memorial—are not simply projects. They are legacies," the award nomination said. "Each represents years of persistence, leadership and coordination, carried out with care and vision. These landmarks serve as daily reminders of Garner’s past and values, and they foster a sense of place and pride for residents and visitors alike."
The award nomination added: “The spirit of this award lies in honoring those whose service is foundational—who help shape the identity of Garner through sustained contributions that stand the test of time. Judy Bass is that kind of person. Her fingerprints are on some of the most cherished and enduring parts of Garner’s civic landscape. She has helped define what Garner values, remembers and celebrates. For all these reasons, Judy Bass represents the very heart of what the James R. Stevens Award was created to recognize.”
About the James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award
The James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award was established by the Stevens family to recognize individuals who have made substantial, outstanding contributions to the Town of Garner over a period of many years. Preference is given to nominees with 20 or more years of service. Non-residents of Garner are eligible recipients if the award committee determines that they meet the criteria necessary to receive the honor. Individuals also can be recognized posthumously.
Via Town of Garner
Garner’s July 3rd Independence Day Celebration
Lake Benson Park (921 Buffaloe Road)
Gates open at 5 p.m. on July 3rd.
Gates open at 5 p.m. on July 3.
This free event features food vendors, kids activities and live music by The Embers and North Carolina Symphony.
The night concludes with the best fireworks show in the Triangle. There's free shuttle service to and from the park from South Garner High School. Get updates on the event at GarnerNC.gov.
Garner Juneteenth Celebration Coming to GPAC June 21st
This free event will feature local choirs, dance and narrative interwoven with documentary-style video segments that explore various aspects of Garner's history through the recollections of those who lived it. Congresswoman Deborah Ross and Mayor Buddy Gupton will make remarks as well.
The Town of Garner and Garner Juneteenth Committee will present the annual Garner Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 21, at 11 a.m. at Garner Performing Arts Center (742 W. Garner Road).
This free event will feature local choirs, dance and narrative interwoven with documentary-style video segments that explore various aspects of Garner's history through the recollections of those who lived it. Congresswoman Deborah Ross and Mayor Buddy Gupton will make remarks as well.
History and Background
Galveston 1865
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19th that the Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free.
This was two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation - which had become official January 1, 1863. The Emancipation Proclamation had little impact on the Texans due to the minimal number of Union troops to enforce the new Executive Order.
However, with the surrender of General Lee in April of 1865, and the arrival of General Granger’s regiment, the forces were finally strong enough to influence and overcome the resistance.
In the early years
Little interest existed outside the African American community in participation in the celebrations. In some cases, there was outwardly exhibited resistance by barring the use of public property for the festivities.
Most of the festivities found themselves out in rural areas around rivers and creeks that could provide for additional activities such as fishing, horseback riding and barbecues. Often church grounds were the site for such activities.
Eventually, as African Americans became landowners, land was donated and dedicated for these festivities. One of the earliest documented land purchases in the name of Juneteenth was organized by Rev. Jack Yates.
Volunteer : Meals on Wheels
Looking for a way to volunteer locally in Garner and help some neighbors?
Meals on Wheels allows older adults in Wake County to maintain their dignity and independence and remain in their homes. When a volunteer delivers a meal to a homebound recipient, we are not only providing a meal, but we are also providing a visit and a check up. It is comforting to family members to know that someone is stopping in daily to be sure that everything is okay.
Looking for an opportunity to serve your Garner neighbors?
Consider Meals on Wheels of Wake County
Meals on Wheels of Wake County, provides our homebound and senior neighbors with a nutritious hot meal, along with a check-in and visit. Our services provide the opportunity for seniors to continue living well nourished, independent and safe lives, in their own homes and communities.
Volunteer
The most convenient and impactful way to help is by becoming a volunteer. Volunteering only requires about 1-2 hours of your day to help feed an older or disabled neighbor in your community.
Need Meals?
The goal of Meals on Wheels of Wake County is to nourish and enrich our clients’ lives through the services we provide. Our Home-Delivered Meals program helps our clients maintain a healthy lifestyle and remain living independently by providing nutritious meals, a weekly safety check, and friendly interaction.
Two Garner Residents Earn Their Law Degrees from Campbell University
Two Garner residents were among the 183 graduates conferred Juris Doctor degrees on Friday, May 9, 2025, during Campbell University’s Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law’s 47th hooding and graduation ceremony at the Martin Marietta Center in downtown Raleigh.
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — Two Garner residents were among the 183 graduates conferred Juris Doctor degrees on Friday, May 9, 2025, during Campbell University’s Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law’s 47th hooding and graduation ceremony at the Martin Marietta Center in downtown Raleigh.
They are:
Lauryl E. Fright, graduated cum laude and was a member of Campbell University Law Review
Parissa Y. Sharifyazdi
The Class of 2025 marks the largest graduating class in the law school’s history, said Dean J. Rich Leonard.
“Standing here in my 12th year as your dean, I have enormous confidence in the superb quality of our legal education program,” Leonard told the graduates. “In my final words to this class I love, we have taught you to analyze an issue thoroughly, write persuasively and stand on your feet and comfortably defend your position … Hopefully we have taught you to follow your own moral compass. And we have put you out in this community, in externships, clinics, pro bono initiatives and mentorships to learn how the practice of law works. You are ready. And your skills are desperately needed.”
North Carolina’s Attorney General Jeff Jackson in his first commencement address in his new role told the graduates his mission was to help them feel a little less anxious about their future including the upcoming bar exam and subsequent job hunt.
“Campbell does the best job of preparing students for the bar exam of any school in the state,” he said. “You are in such a stronger position than I was walking into that test. You are going to be OK…for those of you who don’t have something lined up, if you are applying anywhere in North Carolina, you have an advantage because Campbell Law is widely known and … it’s well regarded.”
Jackson added, “You just ran a three-year long marathon that fewer than half a percent of anyone in our country has ever run. You don’t need to worry about your place in this world, the world needs to worry about you. You’re going to crush it!!
Retiring Dean Emerita and Professor Melissa Essary, in her last official duty for the law school, hooded the graduates.
Find more photos of the ceremony on the law school’s Facebook page at this link and watch the graduation ceremony’s YouTube recording at this link.
ABOUT CAMPBELL LAW SCHOOL
Since its founding in 1976, Campbell Law has developed lawyers who possess moral conviction, social compassion and professional competence, and who view the law as a calling to serve others. Among its accolades, the school has been recognized by the American Bar Association (ABA) as having the nation’s top Professionalism Program and by the American Academy of Trial Lawyers for having the nation’s best Trial Advocacy Program. Campbell Law boasts nearly 5,000 alumni, who make their home in nearly all 50 states and beyond. In 2026, Campbell Law will celebrate 50 years of graduating legal leaders and 17 years of being located in a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of North Carolina’s Capital City.
via Campbell University
Garner Lake Benson Boathouse Opens May 16 for Season
Come on out to the lake starting May 16! That's when the Lake Benson Boathouse opens for the season.
Come on out to the lake starting May 16! That's when the Lake Benson Boathouse opens for the season. The popular amenity offers a variety of boat, kayak and canoe rentals and provides the opportunity to fish from the dock during boathouse hours.
Lake Benson Boathouse
975 Buffaloe Road
Garner, NC 27529
919.247.3446Lake Benson Boathouse is located just down the road from Lake Benson Park. Jon boats, canoes and kayaks are available to rent. There is no charge to fish from the dock. Dock fishing is only available when the boathouse is open. All rentals are on a first come, first served basis.via Town of Garner
Garner Cars and Coffee Building Community and Momentum in Downtown Garner
Garner’s Cars and Coffee is bringing a chill vibe and a variety of cars and car enthusiasts to Downtown Garner.
On the 3rd Sunday of each month between 8:30 and 11am if you hop down to Downtown Garner next to Fullbloom Coffee Roasters and the Garner Rec Center there’s no telling what kind of cars you’ll run into.
From 60’s classics to the latest EVs to classics that are now EVs and from Mustangs and Broncos to Civics and Super Bees.
Garner’s Cars and Coffee is building a reputation for relaxing and chill time for regulars and new folks to spend a Sunday morning talking cars.
General theme is Pre-2000 but other vintage, unique, rare or interesting cars and projects are welcome.
Follow Garner Cars and Coffee on Facebook HERE
GBI: Garner Youth Baseball Celebrates 70 Years
Garner Baseball, Incorporated (GBI) has an over 70 year presence in the Garner community.
Garner Baseball, Incorporated (GBI) has an over 70 year presence in the Garner community.
GBI is a volunteer-run organization dedicated to providing baseball opportunities for children from a wide geographic area.
It also underscores the intergenerational involvement within the program, with families spanning three generations participating and fostering strong community bonds and friendships.
Read More at NBC17: HERE
Garner resident graduates from Campbell University School of Law
Garner, North Carolina, resident Christian Lunghi was among the graduates Campbell University’s Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law conferred 145 Juris Doctor degrees on Friday, May 12, during its 45th hooding and graduation ceremony at the J.S. Dorton Arena. (Photo via FB Christian Lunghi)
RALEIGH — Garner, North Carolina, resident Christian Lunghi was among the graduates Campbell University’s Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law conferred 145 Juris Doctor degrees on Friday, May 12, during its 45th hooding and graduation ceremony at the J.S. Dorton Arena.
Lunghi graduated cum laude, which is awarded for degrees earned with distinction. Lunghi also received the Order of Old Kivett which is awarded for exemplary representation in advocacy competitions while maintaining the highest ethical standards.
“Today is a transitional point in your lives,” Dean J. Rich Leonard told the graduates. “For the rest of your days, no matter what you are doing, whether you are a prosecutor or a public defender, a civil litigator or criminal defense attorney, a judge, a corporate officer, a government official, or a parent at home raising children, when the question is asked, 'What do you do?' you are entitled to proudly answer, 'I am a lawyer.'”
Nottingham Law School Deputy Dean Matthew Homewood on behalf of Nottingham Trent University, United Kingdom, bestowed four Master of Laws (LL.M.) degrees to Heidi M. High of Hankasalmi, Finland, Erin Leigh Basinger of Kannapolis, LeAnne McAbee of Wilkesboro and Judge Donna Elizabeth "Beth" Tanner of Kinston. "Enjoy every part of this day and take a moment to reflect on what you have achieved," Homewood said. "It's amazing."
Campbell University Board of Trustees Chairman Gene Lewis III '94,' 97 told the Class of 2023, who began their law school journey during the pandemic, they have risen to the challenge. "You are our future ... your tool chest is full and, with what you have learned during the pandemic, your class is best equipped to transform the legal profession ... seize your future and do great and good things."
North Carolina's First Lady Kristin Cooper '82 was the commencement speaker. In her entertaining and inspirational speech, Cooper encouraged the graduates to break out of their comfort zones and continue to challenge themselves by learning new things and seeking out those with whom they fundamentally disagree. "Your law degree gives you options," she explained. "I encourage you to go on to have lives that are not just about making money but finding joy. Don't fear failure. Seek justice and love mercy. You are all going to shine like diamonds. I can't wait to see what you are going to do."
Valedictorian Sofia Peri Baneth told her classmates that just .4 percent of the U.S. population works as a lawyer, making it a privilege that also comes with responsibilities, including explaining the law, working hard for clients, solving problems and continuing to support each other while representing the Campbell Law School community. She wrapped up her remarks with, "Guess what? Y'all, we did it!," which was received with a huge round of applause.
Find photos of the ceremony on the law school's Facebook page at this link and watch the graduation ceremony's Live Stream recording at this link.
Members of the Campbell Law School Class of 2023 pose with Dean J. Rich Leonard.
ABOUT CAMPBELL LAW
Since its founding in 1976, Campbell Law School has developed lawyers who possess moral conviction, social compassion and professional competence, and who view the law as a calling to serve others. Among its accolades, the school has been recognized by the American Bar Association (ABA) as having the nation’s top Professionalism Program and by the American Academy of Trial Lawyers for having the nation’s best Trial Advocacy Program. Campbell Law boasts more than 4,800 alumni, who make their home in nearly all 50 states and beyond. In 2023, Campbell Law is celebrating 45 years of graduating legal leaders and 14 years of being located in a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of North Carolina’s Capital City.
Historic Downtown Garner Unveils New Social District
The Garner Social District went into effect on March 1. Visitors to the Historic Downtown Garner commercial district can enjoy alcoholic beverages in a defined public area, but some rules and restrictions apply
The new Garner Social District was launched in Historic Downtown Garner on March 1. See the map below for the district's boundaries. Hours for the district are Monday-Saturday noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.
Here are some do's and don't's for those who want to enjoy the district:
Please do:
Purchase your beverages only from permitted businesses.
Enjoy your beverages only within the Garner Social District boundaries (see map below).
Be responsible for your behavior. Follow all rules associated with the Garner Social District.
When enjoying your beverage in the Social District, enter only businesses with signage that permits alcoholic beverages and stay within the Social District.
Please don't:
Bring your own alcohol.
Bring or refill your own cups.
Take any alcoholic beverages outside of the designated Social District zone. Boundaries are designated by signage (also, see map below).
Take any alcoholic beverage onto Town-owned property (e.g. the Garner Recreation Center).
Assume that every business located within the Garner Social District zone participates. Please check for appropriate signage.
Jacob David Stevens, Garner Magnet High School Teacher Passed Away Unexpectedly. Jacob in His Father's Words.
Jacob David Stevens, 41, an automotive teacher at his beloved Garner Magnet High School, died unexpectedly at his home on Monday night. Our family appreciates the support we have received from the community. Your prayers help to relieve the pain.
Republished from Tim Stevens’s public Facebook Post
Jacob David Stevens, 41, an automotive teacher at his beloved Garner Magnet High School, died unexpectedly at his home on Monday night. Our family appreciates the support we have received from the community. Your prayers help to relieve the pain.
He was a good, caring person who loved his wife, Allison, and 15-year-old son Wade with all his being. He and Wade had worked together for more than a year to restore Jake’s first truck to become Wade's first car. Jake had so looked forward to watching Wade drive it. Jake didn’t quite get it finished, but friends plan to have Wade riding soon.
Jake could be found most weeks eating Sunday dinner with his parents, Donna and Tim Stevens, his sisters Susanna Stevens and Elizabeth Edwards and their families. He loved being an uncle to niece Hannah Edwards and nephew Hank Edwards. Family was paramount.
As a child, Jake loved going with his family to Disney World. Coordinating vacation time for four families had become difficult in recent years, but Jake had managed to plan a big family gathering in Florida in May. He knew people would have different agendas on the trip, but he said he wanted to get everybody together again at one of his favorite places.
Jake grew up around sports and he loved baseball. He was a starter for Garner Senior, but said he never realized that he wasn’t very good until he quit playing.
Football gradually became his athletic passion. He did not play football until his sophomore year in high school, but eventually was a quarterback, place kicker, and punter on the varsity. He broke his leg making a tackle during his senior season but rejoined the team for the state playoffs and helped the Trojans to the state 4-A championship game.
He became an assistant football coach at Garner Senior, working with his former coach Hal Stewart and Stewart’s successors, Nelson Smith, and Thurman Leach. He loved coaching and the opportunity the work with young men.
His biggest passion was helping people. He restored a 1950s Farmall tractor for his grandfather, James R. Stevens, rebuilt another old tractor to become the blue and gold Trojan tractor and kept the teachers’ cars running. He loved teaching auto mechanics. Every year his Christmas wish list was primarily tools and equipment to be used at school. He would open a package and say that the kids in class would appreciate this.
Jake was a strong advocate for vocational education, and he reveled in his former students who found well-paying jobs in mechanical fields. He worked at finding jobs for his former students. Many of his students say he was the best teacher that they ever had. Others said that he changed their lives.
He was a person of strong faith and strong opinions.
But there was never any question that he was most concerned about his students and his family.
He is survived by his wife Allison and son Wade; his mother and father Donna and Tim Stevens; sister Susanna; and sister Elizabeth Edwards, her husband Patrick and their two children Hank and Hannah.
The last words we heard him speak came as he was leaving our house. He kissed Donna as he always did and said, "I love you, momma."
Jake’s loss is devastating to us.
Spirit League Comes to Garner
Spirit League is an adaptive basketball program that allows participants with special needs to play a team sport in a positive, self-esteem building environment. Athletes will have the opportunity to learn new skills and the fundamentals of basketball through drills and fun adaptive games.
Spirit League is an adaptive basketball program that allows participants with special needs to play a team sport in a positive, self-esteem building environment.
Athletes will have the opportunity to learn new skills and the fundamentals of basketball through drills and fun adaptive games.
Please wear gym clothes, athletic shoes and bring a water bottle.
Personal Assistants are welcome. Team shirts will be provided.
Scan this QR Code for more information
Volunteers Needed
Thanks for considering volunteering with the Garner Spirit League this season! We ask that volunteers commit to attending at least 4 of the 7 sessions to provide continuity for the participants and the opportunity to build relationships. All volunteers will be need to pass a background screening before being allowed to interact with participants. Once you have signed up to volunteer, be on the look out for communication from Sara Shaw, Recreation Program Supervisor, for more information on completing the background check. If you have any questions feel free to reach out to Sara at scshaw@garnernc.gov.