As people lined up for hot dogs at Cricket's Grill in downtown Smithfield Friday afternoon, conversation easily turned to the economy. The unemployment rate in Johnston County has reached almost ten percent.

"It's a little depressing, because everyone is wondering when am I next?," said Bob Moore, who has lived in Smithfield for about 37 years.

Others say they feel the absence of people who lost their jobs.

"There's no one around nowhere. They're just home bored. When they work they come out, they talk, they communicate," said Michael Cuevas, who also stopped by Cricket's Grill.

Fewer people are riding around in Wendy Tew's cab. She is losing income each day.

"$20 to $30 dollars a day is a big difference especially if you're in this kind of business," she said.

But it's not all bad news.

Smithfield-Selma Chamber of Commerce President Rick Childrey says some key employers in healthcare, local government, and retail stores have avoided layoffs so far.

"It could be a lot worse, I'm sure," he said. "Right now companies are I think taking a wait and see how things are going to work out over the next few months."