It’s with heavy hearts that the family of Kathy (Ward) Thompson of Huntersville, NC announces her passing on July 7, 2026 at the age of 74.
‘Footloose’ Cast Brings Family, Faith and Redemption to the LCC Stage
Footloose showcases an unforgettable cast of adults who bring empathy, conviction, and emotional depth to the stage, laying the foundation of the story with powerful performances that explore family, faith, and redemption.
Jones County commissioners approve mixed beverage referendum, advance Brock Mill Pond project
The Jones County Board of Commissioners approved several major items during a special meeting Monday, including placing a countywide mixed beverage referendum on the November ballot, advancing an $870,000 recreational improvement project at Brock Mill Pond and opposing proposed federal grant administration changes that county officials said could create significant financial risks for small counties.
Bucklesberry, Back in the Day: Hickory Grove Church (17)
Within six months of electing Baptist preacher Rev. James D. Cavanaugh as pastor of Hickory Grove in November 1883, the Church trustees inexplicably called a second pastor, Rev. James D. Carpenter. The two men essentially shared the pulpit as co-pastors, although they conducted services on different regular Sundays each month:
North Carolina to eliminate vehicle registration cards and plate stickers starting Oct. 1
North Carolina will begin eliminating physical vehicle registration cards and annual license plate renewal stickers this fall under a provision included in the state budget.
KPD Update: 19-year-old charged in Brothers Store theft investigation
The Kinston Police Department is asking for the public’s help identifying two individuals wanted for questioning in connection with a reported theft from Brothers Store.
Recovery Together ENC Expands Overdose Response Efforts with Community One Box Training
Recovery Together ENC recently hosted a collaborative training event to distribute lifesaving One Boxes to local organizations, hoping to strengthen community response to opioid response overdose. These emergency kits provide simple, step-by-step guidance for reversing an opioid overdose and are designed to empower everyday citizens to act quickly during a crisis.
Kinston Public Services warns customers of utility payment scam calls
Kinston Public Services is warning utility customers about scam calls from individuals claiming to represent the department and threatening service disconnection over alleged nonpayment.
John Hood: Freer Carolinas Means More Carolinians
RALEIGH — Progressives are frustrated by North Carolina’s just-enacted state budget, hostile to recent deregulatory initiatives and tax cuts, and outraged at recent welfare reforms and school-choice expansions. They think our state is careening dangerously in the wrong direction. If their preferred candidates win state and local offices in November, they hope to reverse course.
Lenoir County restaurant inspections
The following restaurant inspections were conducted by the Lenoir County Health Department:
Mike Parker: Declaration signers continued serving after Revolution
I recently wrote about some of the signers of the Declaration of Independence who suffered personal and professional losses during the American Revolution. Today, I want to highlight just a few of the signers who became significant figures in the newly formed American republic.
Lenoir County Chamber of Commerce: The Good Stuff, July
Lenoir County Chamber of Commerce newsletter, The Good Stuff - July 2026
Help Wanted: Biology Instructor
Lenoir Community College is a comprehensive institution that places primary emphasis on excellence in classroom instruction. The Biology Instructor is responsible for providing quality and engaging instruction to LCC students through the use of seated and online courses, and through creative biology labs as needed to promote successful completion of degree requirements.
Event: Summer Nights at the Manor
This elevated summer gathering offers a fresh, playful take on a classic night out—all while supporting a meaningful cause. Proceeds from the evening will benefit our local Community Council of the Arts, helping to sustain and expand creative programs that enrich our community.
Evelyn Dove Coleman: Business Mentorship
I read an interesting article recently which helps to explain the differences between three types of business executives. Some are managers. Some are leaders. Others become mentors.
Golf tournament fundraiser planned for Glen Stalnaker
Friends and family are organizing a golf tournament fundraiser to support Glen Stalnaker, who was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease, in May.
From the Desk of Senator Brent Jackson
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 death notices
The following is a list of people who have recently passed away in Lenoir County:
Help Wanted: Biology Instructor
Lenoir Community College is a comprehensive institution that places primary emphasis on excellence in classroom instruction. The Biology Instructor is responsible for providing quality and engaging instruction to LCC students through the use of seated and online courses, and through creative biology labs as needed to promote successful completion of degree requirements.
Obituary: Robert Edward "Bob" Taylor
Mr. Robert Edward “Bob” Taylor, age 89, passed away late Friday evening, July 10, 2026, at UNC Lenoir Hospital. A native of Greene County, he was born March 22, 1937, the son of Willie James and Sadie Beaman Taylor.