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Tropical Storm force winds Friday through Saturday

A low-pressure system off the Southeast coast will bring significant impacts to Eastern North Carolina from Friday through Saturday. The storm's expansive wind field extends beyond its center, increasing the risk of scattered tree damage and power outages. Coastal areas may experience storm surge and inundation of up to 2-5 feet, while widespread rainfall of 3-5 inches (with localized totals up to 7 inches) poses a flash flooding threat, especially in urban and poorly drained areas. Additionally, the storm carries a risk of several tornadoes, with potential damage and disruptions to power and communications. Residents are urged to exercise caution, avoid flooded roads, and stay informed about this evolving weather system.

Warrants obtained in Woodington MS incident

The Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office has obtained warrants for the arrest of Kegan Van Damke of Lewisville in regards to the break-in reported at Woodington Middle School. Damke has not yet been taken into custody. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Damke is asked to contact the Lenoir County Crime Stoppers tip line at 252-523-4444 or to contact their local authorities.

Bariatric Basics: Obesity in America

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates 42.4% of adults have the diagnosis of obesity and 9.2% have severe obesity. In 2021, CDC ranked North Carolina 16th in overall obesity compared to the rest of the United States.  In 2022, 40.4% of adults in Lenoir County were clinically obese, 5% greater than the overall rate in North Carolina.   Lenoir County residents live in one of the epicenters of the obesity epidemic. 

Veterans' Roundtable: Montana Artist paints rose on POW/MIA chair for Recognition Day

Artist Linda Paluka flew in from Montana to paint the third white rose on the POW/MIA chair at the G.I. Joe Living History Museum. The white roses symbolize those North Carolina servicemembers missing in action in Vietnam who have been recovered. Frederick Hall, Bynum Price, and Edward Morgan were the three servicemembers whose roses were painted on the chair. 

Caitlin Waters Crowned 2024 Distinguished Young Woman of Lenoir County

On Saturday, over $12,000 in scholarships and other gifts were given to the Distinguished Young Women of Lenoir County Class of 2024.  The Distinguished Young Woman of Lenoir County program is part of a nationwide effort to recognize, reward, and encourage excellence and education among all young people. Seven senior girls competed for the scholarships. Participants were Gabby Smith, Tiyah Chapman, Leanna Kivett, Shamiah Hall, Grayson Lynch, Kalyn Brock, and Caitlin Waters.