City leaders used the 45th annual BBQ Fest on the Neuse as the backdrop to recognize local student-athletes, presenting keys to the city to the Kinston High School football and basketball teams.
45th annual BBQ Fest on the Neuse draws teams, crowns winners in Kinston
The 45th annual BBQ Fest on the Neuse returned to downtown Kinston with competition, crowds and a full slate of cook teams competing in the Hog Happenin’ cook-off.
Greene County Commissioners Approve ECC Withdrawal and Opioid Settlement Participation; Oppose Property Tax Reform Measure
The Greene County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 5:00 PM at the Greene County Operations Center in Snow Hill.
Cooking with Tammy Kelly: Treat Your Mom to a Special Mother’s Day Brunch
Treat Mom on her special day with a delicious morning meal, use seasonal fresh vegetables to create quiches and savory dishes, or pancakes and sweet treats. Hope you will find a recipe that your mom will love!! Happy Mother’s Day to all!!
Lenoir County land transfers
The following land transfers were filed with the Lenoir County Register of Deeds:
Arrest Made in Homicide Investigation
Since April 27, 2026, KPD detectives have conducted an extensive investigation that included reviewing surveillance footage, executing forensic search warrants, and interviewing multiple witnesses. Through this work, investigators identified 18-year-old Carmello Tavion Banks of Greenville, North Carolina, as the suspect in the murder of Charles Wade Jr.
Convicted Felon Arrested on Firearm and Narcotics Charges Following Traffic Stop
A Lenoir County man is facing firearm and narcotics-related charges following a proactive patrol operation conducted by the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit.
FRCE delivers first metal 3D printed parts to fleet
Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) is marking a new era of aircraft sustainment with the delivery of its first flight-certified metal additive manufactured parts to the fleet, significantly improving aircraft downtime and flight line readiness.
Hickory Grove Church (12)
Hickory Grove was established by 1841 as a Free Will Baptist (F.W.B.) church. After separation from the F.W.B. in 1864, it began leaning Methodist. Supply preachers from the Methodist Episcopal Church, South (M.E.C.S.) Conference filled their pulpit during the mid to late-1860s. Prior to becoming a permanent Methodist work, the 1870s brought about a denominational interlude with the Baptists that lasted a dozen years.
Proposed 76-lot residential subdivision planned near Banks Elementary School
A proposed residential subdivision near Banks Elementary School would bring 76 single-family lots to a 46.83-acre tract in the Falling Creek area, according to a preliminary plat provided by Lenoir County staff.
Arrest made in homicide investigation
Since April 27, 2026, KPD detectives have conducted an extensive investigation that included reviewing surveillance footage, executing forensic search warrants, and interviewing multiple witnesses. Through this work, investigators identified 18-year-old Carmello Tavion Banks of Greenville, North Carolina, as the suspect in the murder of Charles Wade Jr.
Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office Conducts Drug Investigation in La Grange; Methamphetamine Seized
On Monday, April 27, 2026, deputies with B-Shift of the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office responded to complaints of suspected drug activity in the residential area of JC’s Village Road in La Grange.
Matt Lococo: From a Teacher’s Perspective
Across North Carolina, and especially in small rural districts, teachers and school leaders are facing a level of uncertainty and strain that is becoming unsustainable.
Fentanyl Investigation Leads to Arrest
On April 29, 2026, at approximately 1:32 p.m., the Kinston Police Department’s VCAT Unit concluded an investigation into the possession and sale of fentanyl involving 33-year-old Dashawn Dail.
BBQ Fest on the Neuse returns to downtown Kinston May 1-2
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.