BBQ Fest on the Neuse will return to downtown Kinston May 1-2, bringing barbecue, live music, vendors, carnival rides, family activities and the Hog Happenin’ BBQ Cook-off back to the city’s downtown district.
BMX stunt shows to bring new energy to Kinston BBQ Fest
A new attraction is set to roll into Kinston BBQ Fest this weekend as smART Kinston Foundation’s The Line Action Sports Park hosts multiple BMX stunt shows during the annual event, bringing professional-level riders and a new action sports showcase to downtown Kinston.
Obituary: Robert Lee “Bob” Cato
Robert Lee “Bob” Cato, 82, passed away on April 22, 2026, at his home. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, May 3, 2026, 2:00 PM, at Westminster United Methodist Church in Kinston, North Carolina. A visitation and reception will immediately follow in the fellowship hall.
LCPS hosts legislative breakfast with local, state leaders
Lenoir County Public Schools welcomed local and state leaders Monday morning for its Legislative Breakfast, an event focused on district progress, priorities and continued support for students and staff.
Pastor Jason McKnight: Good Neighbors in a Divided World: Navigating differences with truth and grace
The new family moved in next door; they are from a different country; I wonder what decorations they’ll put outside. The new guy joined our team at work; he transferred from up north; he doesn’t even know what collards are! Our family reunion is next week; can “MAGA Mary” and “Obama Oliver” get along this year; I’m sick of fireworks.
Woman arrested in larceny investigation involving stolen boat
On April 10, 2026, deputies with the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 2600 block of Pauls Path Road in Kinston in reference to the reported larceny of a boat and trailer.
Snow Hill Primary Terrific Kid awards
Snow Hill Primary gives out a weekly award called "Terrific Kid" awards. Each teacher at SHP chooses a student who has been responsible, shows great character, or has reached a personal goal. On Fridays, these students are presented with an award and are congratulated for their hard work. Below are Snow Hill Primary's Terrific Kid Awards!
Jarman Named LCPS 2026-2027 Teacher of the Year in Emotional Celebration of Educators
The 2026 Lenoir County Public Schools Teacher of the Year Banquet was not just a celebration of excellence. It was a night grounded in stories, relationships and the deeply personal reasons educators choose to do this work.
Public Notice: JCPS BID for TINT
The Jones County Public School System, address 320 West Jones St. Trenton, NC 28585, invites safety and security window film contractors to bid on the Jones County Window Filming/Tinting services of the Jones County Board of Education, Pollocksville and Maysville Elementary and Trenton/Jones Senior High School.
Kinston Police Arrest Suspect Following Breaking and Entering
On April 27, 2026, at approximately 10:07 a.m., KPD’s D-Squad responded to a report of a breaking and entering on the 400 block of Glenwood Avenue.
Kinston Police Arrest Suspect Following Breaking and Entering
On April 27, 2026, at approximately 10:44 p.m., KPD’s B-Squad responded to a report of a breaking and entering on the 400 block of W. Lenoir Avenue.
Sen. Brinson and Rep. Humphrey file companion bills to move Pink Hill municipal elections to even years
RALEIGH, N.C. — State Senator Bob Brinson (R-District 3) and State Representative Chris Humphrey (R-District 12) today announced the filing of companion bills in the North Carolina Senate and House of Representatives to amend the charter of the Town of Pink Hill, moving the town's municipal elections from odd-numbered years to even-numbered years.
Massey Toyota Returns as Hole-In-One Sponsor for 2026 LCC Golf Classic
The Lenoir Community College Foundation is thrilled to welcome back Massey Toyota as the Hole-In-One sponsor for this year’s LCC Golf Classic. Once again, Massey Toyota is offering participants an exciting chance to win a brand-new vehicle—just one swing away from driving off in style!
The Ray Mart Radio Show & Friends to host Juneteenth parade in Downtown Kinston
Kinston will host its first Juneteenth parade this summer, with organizers inviting residents, churches, civic groups, businesses and community organizations to take part in the downtown celebration.
Obituary: Richard Glenn Penuel
Richard Glenn Penuel, 78, was welcomed into his Savior’s embrace on Monday, April 27, 2026. Glenn was born in Wayne County on October 20, 1947, to the late Edgar and Mildred Howell Penuel. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his four siblings.
Obituary: Julia Biggs
Julia Biggs, 91, passed away on Saturday, April 25, 2026. A service of love and remembrance will be held by the graveside at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026 at Fairview Cemetery with Pastor Gabe Mitchell officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.
Kinston Police Investigating Fatal Shooting at Carver Courts
On April 27, 2026, at approximately 12:57 a.m., the Kinston Police Department responded to a report of a gunshot wound at 12 building of Carver Courts.
Lenoir County restaurant inspections
The following restaurant inspections were conducted by the Lenoir County Health Department:
Mike Parker: BBQ Festival on the Neuse: More than pulled pork and good times
This year marks the 45th anniversary of the start of the whole hog cook-off, which has become the largest single event in Kinston and Lenoir County each year. BBQ Fest brings tens of thousands of visitors to this area for food, fun, and music. Those who plan this event include a healthy dose of activities for children, as well.
Piggly Wiggly Fresh Buy Returns as Sponsor for LCC Golf Classic
The Lenoir Community College Foundation is proud to welcome back Piggly Wiggly Fresh Buy as a sponsor of this year’s annual LCC Golf Classic. Since its inception, this premier event has raised over $700,000 in support of student scholarships at LCC, and Piggly Wiggly Fresh Buy has been a loyal and valued supporter for many of those years.