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.
House Passes More Than $26 Million for Wake County Projects Secured by Congresswoman Ross
The Town will receive a little over $500,000 in federal funds to make improvements and renovations to the Garner Senior Center.
U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross announced the news in a news release. The federal FY 2023 budget passed by Congress on Dec. 23 included funding requested through Congresswoman Ross’ office for Garner Senior Center facility improvements in the amount of $505,200.
Headed to Biden’s desk, funding will bolster health care, affordable housing, public safety, and more across Wake County
December 23, 2022 Press Release
Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the omnibus funding package for Fiscal Year 2023, which includes $26,890,641 in funding for 15 community projects across Wake County secured by Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02). This critical funding will invest in accessible health care, affordable housing, public safety projects, quality education, and more. Passed by both chambers of Congress, this legislation now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.
“I fought for funding for these essential projects because I know they will make a positive difference in our community,” said Congresswoman Ross. “This week, we put politics aside to invest in the American people. From Raleigh to Wendell, these projects address critical needs in Wake County and represent transformational investments in families, students, seniors, and more. I look forward to President Biden signing this package into law and seeing how these projects will create tangible progress in Wake County.”
Earlier this year, Congresswoman Ross secured $10.7 million in funding for Wake County community projects in the Fiscal Year 2022 government funding package. The 15 projects and funding in the Fiscal Year 2023 package are listed below.
Project Name: Wake County Public Health Center
Amount Secured: $2,000,000
Description: Wake County will use this funding to construct a new Public Health Center. The new 151,000 square foot building will house a variety of health clinics, along with pharmacy and lab facilities, as well as ancillary and complimentary social services programs. Wake County Public Health is the safety net clinical provider for uninsured residents. The County’s 11 clinics served approximately 26,000 residents in 2021. Its pharmacy provides approximately 60,000 prescriptions each year, many of which people could not obtain without Wake County Public Health services.
Project Name: Maynard Road Multifamily Housing in Cary
Amount Secured: $1,000,000
Description: The Maynard Road Multifamily Housing is a planned 127-unit housing development that will provide quality, affordable, mixed-income rental units at below-market rents in a prime area of Cary, North Carolina. The development is needed to help address rising housing costs, especially for low-income individuals and families, because of booming population growth, employment opportunities, and economic development in Cary over the last 20 years. The funding will be used to construct a street to the development. A well-designed and integrated street network is the backbone for a viable, complete neighborhood.
Project Name: Wake Tech Electric Vehicle Training
Amount Secured: $939,041
Description: Wake Technical Community College will use this funding for Grid to Plug to Wheels: Technician Training for Safe and Efficient Electric Vehicle Power Utilization and Maintenance. This job training program will prepare a next generation workforce of 2-year technicians to build and maintain power supply infrastructure and service electric vehicles. The growing demand for skilled labor in this sector will lead to good careers, greenhouse gas reductions, and consumer savings at the pump.
Project Name: Saint Augustine’s University Tuttle Public Health Center
Amount Secured: $490,000
Description: St. Augustine's University, a Historically Black University (HBCU), will use this funding to open its Tuttle Public Health Center (TPHC), which will support health and wellness education, student research regarding the long-term effects of COVID-19, and related programs that will benefit St. Augustine’s students and the surrounding community. Funding will be used to support faculty, establish smart classrooms for students, and purchase research and lab equipment.
Project Name: GoTriangle Wake County Transit Access and Safety Improvements
Amount Secured: $900,000
Description: This project will address critical transit access and operation safety concerns at GoTriangle bus stops across Wake County. The project will make improvements at several locations where the design speed, traffic volumes, constrained right-of-way, and number of transit passengers require safety and ADA accessibility improvements. These improvements include bus bays, sidewalk connections, ADA curb ramps, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals. Proposed locations are distributed throughout the county, benefiting customers on several regional GoTriangle routes.
Project Name: Raleigh-Durham International Airport North Cargo Taxilane Reconstruction
Amount Secured: $5,000,000
Description: This project will reconstruct the Taxilane that provides access to the North Cargo aircraft parking apron at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. This Taxilane access is critical to the operation of both FedEx and UPS, which provide freight and logistics services to central North Carolina.
Project Name: Town of Holly Springs Water Reclamation
Amount Secured: $3,000,000
Description: The Utley Creek Water Reclamation Facility is nearing capacity due to population and economic growth. This project will employ innovative and sustainable techniques to increase capacity and divert treated wastewater for other reuses in the community.
Project Name: Triangle Regional Water Partnership
Amount Secured: $3,326,400
Description: This project will help address the inadequate water supply intended to serve the recently announced VinFast manufacturing facility, the largest economic development project in North Carolina to date, and to provide a safe water supply for the Town of Pittsboro. The funding will be used to construct one of two horizontal directional drills under the Cape Fear River from the City of Sanford’s Water Treatment Plant, which will provide a safe and resilient source of potable water for local government partners that include Chatham County, Pittsboro, Holly Springs, and Fuquay-Varina. Congresswoman Ross secured this funding with Congressman David Price (NC-04).
Project Name: Garner Senior Center Facility Improvements
Amount Secured: $505,200
Description: The project will enhance safety, increase accessibility, and improve functionality of the Garner Senior Center (GSC), which hosts over 42,000 annual visits by Garner-area seniors. The facility also houses Wake County’s largest congregate Meals on Wheels site serving 1,700 monthly meals on-site and is a distribution site for 1,100 monthly delivered meals. Improvements to the facility include replacement of aging HVAC systems to improve air handling, renovations to restrooms to improve safety and accessibility, the addition of an accessible route to outdoor programing areas of the facility, installation of technology to ensure safe user access, enhancements to the kitchen and dining facility to improve food distribution, and other general facility upgrades.
Project Name: Pleasant Grove Community Center in Wendell
Amount Secured: $2,000,000
Description: The Pleasant Grove Community Center Project is a collaborative partnership with the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Town of Wendell, and Wake County to reimagine a future use of the historic African American Carver School. This site is located within a low-income area near a public housing development and will serve as a focal point of inclusion and opportunity. The community center rehabilitation will provide a space to offer families afterschool, track out, and summer camp programs; job development services; and a business incubator to host the entrepreneurial program, LaunchWENDELL. This funding will be used for community engagement, project design, construction documents, and the rehabilitation of the old Carver Elementary School.
Project Name: Tingen Road Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge Design in Apex
Amount Secured: $550,000
Description: This funding will be used for the study and design of a bicycle and pedestrian bridge over the railroad crossing of Tingen Road in Apex, North Carolina. This railroad crossing is expected to close in 2025. Construction of the bicycle and pedestrian bridge will provide a route for the community to safely cross the railroad tracks on Tingen Road.
Project Name: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences Education Center at Prairie Ridge
Amount Secured: $750,000
Description: The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences will use this funding to construct an Education Center at Prairie Ridge, which will expand services to significantly increase the number of visitors the facility can accommodate. Designed for easy accessibility, including for those with limited pedestrian mobility, families with young children, and school groups, the building will feature three new assets: an indoor classroom, furnished with scientific instruments and teaching tools; universally accessible restroom facilities; and a nature porch. This funding will contribute to economic development by creating an important public amenity along the Blue Ridge Corridor, turning an existing community resource into a year-round ecotourism destination, and fostering the creation of new jobs.
Project Name: Town of Morrisville Solar Panel Installations on Town Facilities
Amount Secured: $250,000
Description: The Town of Morrisville wants to lead community adoption of sustainable practices and technology. The Town will use $250,000 in funding to purchase and install solar arrays on three of the Town’s largest energy consuming facilities to reduce its carbon footprint. The facilities include the Morrisville Aquatics and Fitness Center, Public Safety and Municipal Services Building, and Harris Mill Road Fire Station.
Project Name: Town of Fuquay-Varina Continuous Operation Body Camera System
Amount Secured: $180,000
Description: The Town of Fuquay-Varina will use this funding to supply police officers with continuous operation body camera systems. This funding will enable Fuquay-Varina to purchase improved body-worn camera equipment for Police Officers to enhance safety, transparency, and community trust. Body cameras enhance community safety and trust and are essential for 21st century policing.
The Fiscal Year 2023 omnibus funding package also includes:
A $21 billion increase for veterans’ health care to help with implementation of the PACT Act
Reform of the Electoral Count Act of 1887, which will help thwart attempts to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power
Robust funding to provide security, economic, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine in its fight for freedom and democracy
Emergency disaster assistance to help victims of hurricanes and wildfires throughout the country
$72 billion for the Department of Housing and Urban Development to help address the affordable housing crisis, a $6 billion increase above last year’s levels
The package also includes Congresswoman Ross’ legislation, the Unleashing American Innovators Act, critical legislation that will address disparities in the U.S. patent system and expand access to patents for underrepresented communities. The bill will also establish a U.S. Patent Office in the Southeast.
Garner Christmas Parade Returns for 2022, Town Block Party and Tree Lighting Will Bookend
Holiday Block Party at 2pm.
Parade at 4:30pm.
Tree Lighting at 6pm.
Downtown Garner.
The Town will hold its second annual Holiday Block Party from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Garner Recreation Center (215 W. Main St.).
This will be followed by a citizen-organized Christmas Parade on Main Street then the Town's annual tree lighting next to the Recreation Center.
Block Party
This free family-friendly event will feature Holiday kids’ crafts, food trucks, games, music, and more. The Garner Express, a 24-person train ride, will take you on a trip around the outdoor walking trail, and when Santa Claus joins the party be ready for those family pictures! Stick around for the parade and tree lighting to follow!
For more information visit: https://www.garnernc.gov/departments/parks-recreation-and-cultural-resources/events/holiday-block-party
Garner Christmas Parade
The Garner Christmas Parade will follow the Holiday Block Party starting at approximately 4:30 pm.
It will travel down Main Street from New Rand Road to Highway 50/Benson Road.
For more information on the parade please visit: garnerchristmasparade.com
Tree Lighting
The Tree Lighting will follow the immediately after the conclusion of the parade (approximately 6:00-6:30pm). Please join us for a performance from South Garner High School's Titan Harmony Choir and help Santa gather holiday spirit to light up the tree.
South Garner High School Band and Chorus Raising Funds to Travel and Compete in Tennessee
With your support these students will be able to perform some amazing music and showcase South Garner HS !
The South Garner HS Band & Chorus programs are participating in the INSTARAISE donation fundraiser. They need your help to off-set the costs of travel buses for a group trip to Gatlinburg, TN. With your support these students will be able to perform some amazing music and showcase South Garner HS ! To ensure they reach their goal, please also SHARE this link, TEXT this link and EMAIL this link to everyone you know ! Thank you so much for your continued support !
Garner History Museum Hosts Community of Hope Summer Campers and Adds New Native American Exhibit
Volume 4, Number –3 - September, 2022 Our mission: Preserving the history of Garner and nearby crossroads, educating youth and promoting Garner’s story in and outside of the community
Museum Hosts Community of Hope Summer Campers, Leaders
Over 60 student campers and leaders from Garner’s Community of Hope summer camp program visited the Garner History Museum at the Depot on August 3. The students had a great day in Downtown Garner! They learned about fire safety and careers in fire and rescue at Garner’s Fire Station One, toured the Museum to learn about Garner’s history, and visited the new Garner Recreational Center, all within a few blocks of each other off Main Street.
Thanks to the volunteers who helped with this tour. We are excited to offer more such tours for student groups in the Garner area. Please contact us if you want to schedule a date for a group tour.
Native American Exhibit Added to Museum
We have recently added an exhibit on the Native American /American Indian historic presence in the G arner Area. In speaking with several lifelong residents of the area, we discovered that there was evidence of a number of Native American people in the greater Garner area for many years before European settlers came to the area.
These folks reported tilling up many arrowheads and other artifacts on their family farms throughout the area, indicating a significant presence of Native American residents in and around Garner.
Members of the Museum Committee visited the NC Museum of History to view their Native American exhibit; we met with both the State Archaeologist and the Director of Indian Affairs for the State of NC to gain their wisdom and advice on presenting the exhibit. Our hope is to obtain more artifacts and expand the exhibit relating to Indian culture in our area. If you haven’t seen the exhibit yet, there are some extraordinary items to view relating to North Carolina Indian culture.
Courtesy Garner Area Historical Society
New Beginnings for GARNER GROWS at Thompson Road Park
After many trials and tribulations during the pandemic and the loss of our garden site, we have good news to share! Thanks to the hard work of our members and the support of the local community, we were successful in our petition to the Town of Garner to provide a new plot of land for our garden. via Garner Grows
Courtesy Garner Grows
By Sarah West
Garner Grows Community Garden has some very exciting news to share! We are overjoyed to announce that we have partnered with the Town of Garner and have relocated to Thompson Road Park located at 550 Thompson Rd, Garner, NC 27529. You will be able to find us on the back portion of the park behind the field.
First and foremost, we want to thank each and every one of you for your support. We absolutely could not have done this without you! Thank you for signing our petitions, attending town council meetings, coming to our plant sales and volunteering in the garden. Thank you for believing in our mission to foster community engagement through gardening while we work to make the future a greener (and more nourishing) place to be!
Now the fun and the hard work begins. In the coming weeks and months we will need all hands on deck as we get the new site ready. We have a lot to do before we can even begin planting. We will need help laying mulch, building beds, compost bins and planting a landscape buffer.
Be on the lookout for upcoming volunteer days! You can sign up on our website to get updates about volunteer days, plant sales, and special events.
We are so excited to share this space with each and every one of you! As you can see from the landscape design (see image below), we have a bunch of exciting things planned. At the new location we will have hugelkultur beds, traditional row gardens and raised beds for annual and perennial veggies.
In addition, we will have an herb garden, a cut flower garden, a perennial border, berry patches and a large orchard area. We will also have bee hives, a mushroom cultivation area, a seed and propagation station as well as a place for mulch storage and compost bins. A central gathering area for teaching and socializing will complete the picture.
To those unfamiliar with the way Garner Grows operates, we share in the work and the harvest, meaning that all the planting and maintenance of garden plots, the overall garden infrastructure, and any miscellaneous tasks are shared.
And when we harvest everyone who helps out gets to take something delicious home! Every member is a valuable resource, and we work to delegate a variety of tasks so that members of all ages, level of physical ability, and gardening skill can pitch in.
Please consider joining or renewing your Garner Grows membership because we would love to see you in the garden!
Mission Statement
Garner Grows Community Garden is a collective in the greater Raleigh, NC area that aims to provide access to land, education, and resources to grow food in an environmentally sustainable manner. Our mission is to make fresh produce and horticultural education accessible to residents of the Triangle area (Wake, Durham, and Orange County). Our motto, “Share the work, share the harvest” emphasizes our focus on collaboration and community spirit.
Kathy Behringer and Jerry Jones Named Stevens Award Recipients
Town Council Member Kathy Behringer and local businessman Jerry Jones have been named co-recipients of the 2022 James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award—our community’s most prestigious recognition for public service rendered over an extended period of time.
Town Council Member Kathy Behringer and local businessman Jerry Jones have been named co-recipients of the 2022 James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award—our community’s most prestigious recognition for public service rendered over an extended period of time.
Kathy Behringer
“Kathy Behringer is smart, sincere and hardworking. She knows the community because she has raised a wonderful family here and has been devoted to community life and the people of Garner for more than 25 years,” said former Garner Mayor Sam Bridges (as quoted in the nomination letter for Ms. Behringer).
A Garner resident for nearly three decades, Ms. Behringer is now serving her fifth term as a Town Council member. She has focused on community growth and development and on beautification efforts around Garner, especially around some of the town’s main gateways.
Ms. Behringer has held a special place in her heart for the revitalization of historic Downtown Garner and was named a North Carolina Main Street Champion in 2011 by the N.C. Department of Commerce. She currently serves on the Downtown Garner Association, which helps to lead development of historic Downtown Garner as a vibrant business, entertainment and cultural center through public-private partnerships.
During her tenure on the Council, Ms. Behringer also has been a strong advocate for improving parks and recreation opportunities, and she has advocated in particular for the Garner Senior Center.
Ms. Behringer has been passionate about ending domestic violence and has worked to ensure the Town as well as community groups regularly support InterAct of Wake County.
In addition, Ms. Behringer currently serves as The Garner Woman’s Club president and sits on the Board of Directors for the YMCA. She is active in her Community Watch program and is a member of the Garner Chamber of Commerce.
Ms. Behringer has previously served as the past president of the Friends of Historic Garner and as a board member for Passage Home, a non-profit organization that works to break the cycle of poverty for individuals and families in Wake County by helping them to achieve housing and income security.
Ms. Behringer has been an independent business owner for 41 years. She is married to Jeff Behringer, also an independent business owner in Garner. Together they have six children and eight grandchildren.
Jerry Jones
Jerry Jones has served the Garner community for almost 50 years.
“Jerry’s family has deep roots in Garner, and he has never forgotten what Garner has done for him and his family,” the nomination letter for Mr. Jones states. “As Jerry’s business and community leadership approaches fifty years, he is still the positive teammate that everyone wants as a friend, neighbor and business confidant.”
Mr. Jones is a Gamer native and joined his father’s insurance business, Jones Insurance Agency, in 1974, soon after graduating from college. He married Brenda Stone, and they established themselves as respected and admired pillars of the Gamer community.
Soon after graduating from college, Mr. Jones joined the Garner Volunteer Fire Department as a volunteer and served in the department for seven years.
He succeeded his father, Purvis, at the helm of Jones Insurance. After serving on the Garner Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Mr. Jones was elected board chair by his peers for 1980-81. He continued to serve in leadership roles with the Chamber for a number of years.
Mr. Jones is a charter member of the morning Garner Rotary Club (chartered in 1978). He served as president of the club and later served as district treasurer. He earned the Mid-Day Rotary Club’s Ethics Award for his personal and professional character and demeanor.
For his support of Rotary, Mr. Jones has been named a Paul Harris Fellow. He also is a member of the Paul Harris Society and has been a generous supporter of local, district and Rotary International projects ranging from annual scholarships for Garner high school seniors to Rotary International’s goal of eradicating polio.
Mr. Jones has also been passionate about education. He served with the Communities in Schools program for seven years as a tutor and mentor, then seven years with the Schools and Communities Organized to Read (SCOR) program for seven years as a reading mentor with second-graders at Timber Drive Elementary.
The Joneses have continued to support local civic, business and service groups and initiatives, including the following:
Little League team sponsorships
Community of Hope Ministries
Garner Senior Center capital campaign
Garner Veterans Memorial capital campaign
Poole Family YMCA capital campaign
In addition, Mr. Jones has been a Business Advisory Board member of Wake Services and Advisory Board member at North State Bank.
Mr. Jones and Ms. Behringer will be recognized at the Aug. 16 Town Council meeting, held at 7 p.m. in the Ronnie S. Williams Council Chambers in Garner Town Hall, located at 900 7th Ave.
ABOUT THE JAMES R. STEVENS SERVICE TO GARNER AWARD
The James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award is intended to recognize people who have made substantial, outstanding contributions to Garner over a long period of time. Emphasis is on service rendered over an extended period of time with preference given to nominees with 20-plus years of service. This is in keeping with James R. Stevens’ tradition of service spanning decades. Non-residents of Garner are eligible if the award committee deems that they meet the criteria necessary to receive the honor. The award also can be bestowed posthumously.
The award program is administered by the Town of Garner, with a selection committee made up of the mayor, a representative of the Stevens family and other community members.
Nominations Being Accepted for Stevens Award Through July 17
Do you know someone who deserves special recognition for their many years of service to the Garner community? You can nominate them for the James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award now until July 17.
Stevens Award Application
Service to Garner Award Nomination Form
Eligibility & Introduction
Anyone who has made substantial, outstanding contributions to the Town of Garner over a period of years is eligible for the James R. Stevens Service to Garner Award. Emphasis should be placed on service rendered over an extended period of time rather than what has been done in the preceding twelve months.
Preference will be given to nominees with 20 (+) years of service. This is in keeping with James Stevens’ tradition of service
spanning decades.
Non-residents of Garner are eligible if the award committee deems they meet the criteria necessary to receive this award. Additionally, the James R. Stevens Service Award can be awarded posthumously.
Nominations should describe or outline the nominee’s service to Garner. Please be sure to include civic, fraternal, religious organizations and affiliations, positions held, award or recognition's received, etc.
Nominations will be accepted through July 17, 2022
Questions: 919-773-4456.
Juneteenth Community Celebration
Our community will come together at Garner Performing Arts Center (742 W. Garner Road) on Sunday, June 19, at 2:30 p.m. for an afternoon of music, dance, spoken word performances and more as we celebrate Juneteenth and our nation's progress toward freedom for all.
Our community will come together at Garner Performing Arts Center (742 W. Garner Road) on Sunday, June 19, at 2:30 p.m. for an afternoon of music, dance, spoken word performances and more as we celebrate Juneteenth and our nation's progress toward freedom for all.
Live musical performances by
Rozlyn Sorrell
Lena Mae Perry
Darrien Rutherford
Spoken word by Imani Horton
Special guest Tammy Brunner (Wake County Register of Deeds)
This event is brought to you by the Garner Juneteenth Committee and the Town of Garner. Learn more at garnerjuneteenth.com.
Bring The Heat! Event - Aristotle Spirits
In honor of their First Anniversary Bash, Aristotle Spirits is hosting a Bring the Heat Cook-OFF! They will also be releasing their Habanero Vodka.
In honor of their First Anniversary Bash, Aristotle Spirits is hosting a Bring the Heat Cook-OFF! They will also be releasing their Habanero Vodka.
There is no fee for participation in the Cook-OFF. Participants are welcome to bring a charcoal grill or smoker. We encourage you to make any dish. The competition will be judged on the overall best of show, so anything goes.
If you would like to bring a pop-up tent and any additional supplies feel free. We will be more than happy to provide additional tables and chairs. You will be able to set up as early as 8am the day of.
Grand Prize includes Aristotle Swag, a $100 Gift Card, First Edition New Release Product, and much more.
If you would like to participate in the competition please visit https://aristotle-spirits.square.site/
or Contact Macie:
macie@aristotlespirits.com
Aristotle Spirits will have an outdoor bar and yard games all day. We will also be hosting a Raffle that benefits Garner Fire Rescue.
Library to Host Talk to Commemorate Juneteenth
The Southeast Regional Library is offering a special program on June 7 that will teach the true story of the 13th Amendment and the expansion of freedom to all citizens as the Civil War was drawing to a close.
Freedom Coming, Freedom for All!
The Southeast Regional Library is offering a special program on June 7 that will teach the true story of the 13th Amendment and the expansion of freedom to all citizens as the Civil War was drawing to a close.
Learn the true story of freedom! The passage of the 13th Amendment outlawed slavery in North Carolina. The United States Colored Troops and the Union Forces spread the news as they marched through Garner and southeastern Wake County from Johnston County en route to Raleigh in 1865. NC Museum of History Curator Earl L. Ijames will discuss the freedom process at this year's Juneteenth Holiday.
Registration Required.
June 07, 2022
6:00 pm to 7:30 pm
FREE
Friday Family Flicks: Spider-Man No Way Home
The Garner Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department will have a free showing of "Spider-Man: No Way Home" (weather permitting) on Friday, June 10, at 8:45 p.m. on the front lawn of Garner Recreation Center (215 W. Main St.).
The Garner Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department will have a free showing of "Spider-Man: No Way Home" (weather permitting) on Friday, June 10, at 8:45 p.m. on the front lawn of Garner Recreation Center (215 W. Main St.).
Join us outside for a free family movie on the big screen. Concessions will be available for purchase. Rain date is the same time the following day. Don’t forget your lawn chairs or blankets!
Don't miss Spiderman! He will be here taking pictures from 8:15-8:45pm.
Concessions will be provided by Funnel Cakes by Tonio!
Menu:
Fresh Popped Popcorn
Nachos and Cheese
Funnel Cake
Deep Fried Oreos
Baked Pretzel
Cotton Candy
Drinks and Refreshments
Check garnernc.gov or the Town's social media sites on the day of the event for updates on any possible rescheduling or cancellation due to inclement weather.
Garner Memorial Day Observance, May 30th, Lake Benson Park. 9:30am.
This annual observance honors those who died while serving our country in the armed forces. Guided tours of the Garner Veterans Memorial will be conducted before the event and after its conclusion.
This annual observance honors those who died while serving our country in the armed forces. Guided tours of the Garner Veterans Memorial will be conducted before the event and after its conclusion.
The event is co-sponsored by Garner Veterans Advisory Committee, American Legion Post 232 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10225. *Please note earlier start time.*
Attendees are encouraged to bring camper chairs for comfort.
Jihan Hodges Recognized as Main Street Champion
The Downtown Garner Association was honored to nominate past DGA Chair and Board Member Jihan Hodges as Garner’s 2021 Main Street Champion. Downtown Development Manager Mari Howe shared the following in her nomination of Jihan Hodges:
Thirty-three North Carolina Main Street Champions were recognized for their commitment to downtown revitalization and strong communities in 2021 during the recent NC Main Street Conference. Including this year’s group of honorees, 837 Main Street Champions have been recognized by the N.C. Department of Commerce since 2000.
The Downtown Garner Association was honored to nominate past DGA Chair and Board Member Jihan Hodges as Garner’s 2021 Main Street Champion. Downtown Development Manager Mari Howe shared the following in her nomination of Jihan Hodges:
Since joining the Downtown Garner Association in 2017, Jihan Hodges has been an amazing asset to Garner’s Main Street program. Bringing her energy and passion to the table, she plays a big part in making Downtown Garner’s signature events successful. Jihan puts in long hours, acting as volunteer coordinator, and looking for opportunities, big and small, to make downtown events better every year. Often the first to arrive and last to leave, Jihan’s commitment is unparalleled, and her assistance is invaluable to the downtown manager. During her four years on the downtown board, Jihan served as vice chair and chair, leading the organization as an advocate for a catalytic public-private development project on Main Street and guiding annual planning efforts to build on downtown’s strategic assets.
The 2021 NC Main Street Champions were honored in a virtual recognition ceremony on March 10. Representatives from the NC Department of Commerce attended to congratulate the new Champoions. “There are three common elements that are found in successful communities. These elements are asset based economic development strategies, public and private partnerships, and local champions,” said Kenny Flowers, Assistant Secretary of Rural Economic Development at the N.C. Department of Commerce.
“Main Street Champions are the key to success in downtown revitalization. They possess courage to move downtown forward; they fight for positive change and do that with creativity and innovation; and they actively get things done, while staying focused on the downtown’s economic development strategies,” said Liz Parham, Director of the N.C. Main Street & Rural Planning Center at Commerce.
The Downtown Garner Association would like to thank Jihan Hodges for her dedicated service and enthusiastic contributions to Garner’s Main Street program.