Lenoir County commissioners discussed the future of the county’s transit system during their FY 2026-27 budget workshop, including a proposed general fund contribution for the first time.
Obituary: Nell Dail Patrick
Nell Dail Patrick, of Kinston, passed away on May 27, 2026, peacefully at her home. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, 11:00 AM, at Westminster United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends following the service.
Kinston Recommended Budget Lowers Tax Rate, Holds Utility Rates Steady
Kinston’s recommended budget for fiscal year 2026-27 proposes a lower property tax rate, no increases to major utility rates and the implementation of a new pay and classification plan for city employees.
Kinston Police Department: Social media threats lead to terrorism arrest
On Thursday, May 28, 2026, the Kinston Police Department received information regarding social media videos allegedly posted by 43-year-old Justin Church of Kinston that contained threats directed toward law enforcement and judicial officials within Lenoir County.
$40 Million Courthouse Renovation Sparks Debate Among Lenoir County Commissioners
A proposed renovation of the Lenoir County Courthouse became one of the major points of debate during the county commissioners’ FY 2026-27 budget workshop, as board members weighed building needs against concerns about taxpayer burden.
Kristy Kelly: Tammy's Kitchen deserves to be seen
Tucked beside the Lenoir County Farmers Market sits a red building with a lot of promise.
Lenoir County Manager Recommends Increasing LCPS Operational Funding to $11 Million
Lenoir County Manager Michael James recommended increasing Lenoir County Public Schools’ operational allocation to $11 million during the county commissioners’ FY 2026-27 budget workshop.
What Kinston’s Proposed Tax Rate Cut Means for Property Owners
Kinston property owners would see a lower city tax rate under the recommended fiscal year 2026-27 budget, but the actual savings will depend on each property’s assessed value.
Lenoir County Commissioners Debate Tax Relief, Spending Priorities During FY26-27 Budget Workshop
Lenoir County commissioners reviewed a proposed FY 2026-27 budget that would maintain the county’s current property tax rate while funding employee pay adjustments, public safety, school operations, transit needs and several capital priorities.
Craven County Sex Offender Arrested for Registration Violations
On May 21, 2026, Jamal Jakes Barnes was arrested for failing to comply with sex offender registration requirements under North Carolina State Law.
Obituary: Mary Lou Sullivan
Mary Lou Radford Sullivan, 89, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. A service of love and remembrance will be held by the graveside at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Fairview Cemetery with Pastor Barry Teague officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.
Public Notice: Notice of Public Hearing FY 2026-2027 Budget
The public is hereby advised that per G.S. 159-12, the Interim City Manager has submitted the proposed budget for the City of Kinston for FY 2026-2027 to the Mayor and the City Council. A copy of the proposed budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027 is on file in the office of the City Clerk, the Public Library and on the City of Kinston's website, www.kinstonnc.gov. The budget is available for public inspection during normal business hours untilthe budget ordinance is adopted. The City Clerk's office is located in City Hall at 207 E. King Street, Kinston, North Carolina.
Pearson Park crosswalk celebration set for May 28
Downtown Kinston Revitalization will host a Pearson Park Crosswalk Celebration at 4 p.m. May 28 to mark the official opening of a new public art crosswalk near Loch Neuse Dragon Park.
BJ Murphy: What Washington and Lincoln Taught Me About Leaving Things Better
Every major military holiday, I make it a habit to study something about our nation’s history, especially military-related topics. This Memorial Day was no different. I watched docuseries on Washington and Lincoln, back to back, and came away struck by the same thing each time: imperfect men, impossible circumstances, and a temperament that outlasted both.
That got me thinking about legacy in a way I hadn't expected.
Hope to Destiny for Youth to Host Large-Scale Community S.T.E.A.M. Event to Inspire Future Leaders
Hope to Destiny for Youth is proud to announce a dynamic and engaging S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) Community Event aimed at inspiring students and families through hands-on learning and real-world exposure. The event will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at 101 N. Myrtle Ave, Kinston, NC 28501.
Obituary: James "Jimmy" Liston Pressly
On May 26, 2026, we mourned the passing of a beloved family member, James “Jimmy” Liston Pressly, 77, who was born on March 31, 1949 in Kinston, NC to Mariana Rochelle and Joseph Earl Pressly.
A Service of Witness to the Resurrection and Celebration of the Life of Jimmy, will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 3:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 2101 N. Herritage St., Kinston, NC. The family will receive friends following the service in Hamilton Hall at the church.
Obituary: Kelli Barefoot Stroud
Mrs. Kelli Barefoot Stroud died Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center following a rapid decline in health after suffering a stroke. Born in Clinton, North Carolina, on January 26, 1965, she was the daughter of Carl and Jean Barefoot.
Obituary: Nancy Carroll Howard Gladson
Nancy Carroll Howard Gladson, 92, of Kinston, departed from her earthly home on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Howard-Carter Funeral Home, with Pastor Greg Kincaid officiating. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow immediately after the service at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Kinston.
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!
Jones County officials explain proposed fire protection service district
JONES COUNTY — Jones County officials are trying to answer residents’ questions about a proposed fire protection service district that would add a separate fire-related tax to most property tax bills while creating a dedicated funding source for the county’s volunteer fire departments.