Obituary: George James Smith, Jr.

George James Smith, Jr. left his earthly home on Saturday, September 7, 2024, surrounded by his family. Visitation will be held at Howard-Carter Funeral Home Tuesday, September 10, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Funeral services will be held at Wheat Swamp Christian Church at 11:00 am on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, with burial to be held at the family cemetery located behind North Lenoir Volunteer Fire Department on Highway 258N on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 11:00 am.

Obituary: Judith Audrey Lamm Finch

Judith Audrey Lamm Finch, 87, formerly of Kinston, died peacefully on September 4, 2024, at the home of her daughter, Joy, in Wake Forest, NC. Those who would like to celebrate Judy’s life are invited to attend her viewing at Howard-Carter Funeral Home on Friday evening, September 13th from 6:00-8:00 pm. A graveside service will be held at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Kinston, NC on September 14th at 11:00 am.

Mike Parker: NC Election Season now open

As of Friday, September 6, North Carolina’s election process kicked off with mailing absentee ballots to those who request them. The deadline for voter registration is 5 p.m. on October 11. In-person early voting, with same-day registration, begins on October 17 and runs through 3 p.m. on Sunday, November 2. Of course, November 5 is in-person voting in the General Election.

Arendell Parrott Academy Kicks Off 60th Year with Family and Tradition

Arendell Parrott Academy kicked off its 60th year Thursday with a Founders Day celebration featuring Susan Parrott, sister of the school’s namesake. Parrott shared stories of her family’s role in creating the school in memory of her late brother, Arendell. The ceremony also included the induction of the 2024-2025 Honor Council, honoring the Academy’s tradition of integrity. Dr. Ike Southerland, the longest-serving Head of School, reflected on the school’s growth and lasting legacy.