RALEIGH, N.C. — On Thursday, the North Carolina General Assembly ratified the 2026 State Budget (SB 257), which passed 88-21 in the House and 35-10 in the Senate on third reading.
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North Carolina's May County and Area Employment Figures Released
Unemployment rates (not seasonally adjusted) increased in 70 counties, decreased in five, and remained unchanged in 25 in May 2026. Hyde and Edgecombe Counties each had the highest unemployment rate at 5.2 percent while Currituck County had the lowest at 2.7 percent.
Three Lenoir County Students Awarded Cypress Creek Energy Scholarships
Cypress Creek Energy is pleased to announce that three students from Lenoir County, NC have been selected to receive 2026 Energizing Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship awards, recognizing their academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to shaping the future of their communities.
Mike Parker: Principles of the Declaration are as important today as ever
Too many people today think of the Declaration of Independence as some ancient document – something akin to the Dead Sea Scrolls or The Odyssey. A truth few stop to consider is that the principles expressed in the Preamble to the Declaration are just as important today as they were in 1776.
From the Desk of Senator Brent Jackson, July 2026
Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter and staying connected with the latest news from District Nine and our efforts in the General Assembly.
Lenoir County land transfers
The following land transfers were filed with the Lenoir County Register of Deeds:
Jones County Student Awarded Cypress Creek Energy Scholarship
Cypress Creek Energy is pleased to announce that one student from Jones County, NC has been selected to receive a 2026 Energizing Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship award, recognizing their academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to shaping the future of their communities.
Meet the Cast Bringing Footloose to Life at LCC
This summer, Footloose: The Musical brings the Turner Stage to life with high-energy music, electrifying dance, and a story about friendship, freedom, and standing up for what you believe in. Featuring a dynamic score that blends high-energy pop-rock with heartfelt ballads, Footloose delivers thrilling choreography, heartfelt performances, and unforgettable songs that will have you dancing in your seat.
Lenoir County death notices
The following is a list of people who have recently passed away in Lenoir County:"
Cooking with Tammy Kelly: Happy Fourth of July and Happy National Hot Dog Month!
In honor of one of America’s most beloved foods, the hot dog, we thought it would be fun to introduce you to some of the many unique and delicious ways it can be served. Trust us, there are more than you might imagine.
Lenoir County restaurant inspections
The following inspections were conducted by the Lenoir County Health Department:
Lenoir County Farmer's Market update July 4, 2026
Join us for hot dogs with all the fixings, grilled street corn, homemade apple hand pies, shaved ice, local vendors, family activities, and a celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary delivers handmade blankets to veterans home
Just in time for Americas 250th Anniversary the Amvets delivered the last 48 handmade blankets to the veterans at the North Carolina Veteran's home. This project "Wrapping our Veterans with Love" has been an important part of this service organizations mission this year.
NC House Huddle: NC State budget approved by General Assembly
Newsletter for the NC House.
Juvenile Arrested After Breaking Into Grainger Stadium
On June 2, 2026, at approximately 3:37 a.m., Kinston Police Department B-Squad officers were patrolling the area when they discovered an open gate at Grainger Stadium.
Traffic Stop Leads to Firearm and Drug Charges
On June 2, 2026, at approximately 2:08 a.m., Kinston Police Department B-Squad officers conducted a traffic stop on Pollock Street after observing a traffic violation.
Kinston police seek public’s help locating missing teen
The Kinston Police Department is asking for the public's help in locating 17-year-old Zy'kerion Wade, who was last seen on July 1, 2026.
Letter to the Editor: Rep. Chris Humphrey: Condition of Roads In and Around Pinelawn Cemetery, Kinston, NC
I am writing in my capacity as the State Representative for House District 12, which includes Lenoir County, to formally express my concern regarding the deteriorating condition of the roads in and around Pinelawn Cemetery in Kinston, North Carolina.
NWS warns of dangerous heat expected to bring extreme impacts to Eastern NC
The National Weather Service Newport/Morehead City is warning residents to prepare for a prolonged heat wave expected to bring dangerous conditions to Eastern North Carolina later this week and into early next week.
Update on video of juvenile being assaulted
During the investigation into the initial assault involving a juvenile victim, investigators discovered three additional disturbing videos depicting separate incidents that occurred on different dates and times—one in March and two in May.