RALEIGH, N.C. — On Thursday, the North Carolina General Assembly ratified the 2026 State Budget (SB 257), which passed 88-21 in the House and 35-10 in the Senate on third reading.
North Carolina's May County and Area Employment Figures Released
Unemployment rates (not seasonally adjusted) increased in 70 counties, decreased in five, and remained unchanged in 25 in May 2026. Hyde and Edgecombe Counties each had the highest unemployment rate at 5.2 percent while Currituck County had the lowest at 2.7 percent.
Three Lenoir County Students Awarded Cypress Creek Energy Scholarships
Cypress Creek Energy is pleased to announce that three students from Lenoir County, NC have been selected to receive 2026 Energizing Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship awards, recognizing their academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to shaping the future of their communities.
Mike Parker: Principles of the Declaration are as important today as ever
Too many people today think of the Declaration of Independence as some ancient document – something akin to the Dead Sea Scrolls or The Odyssey. A truth few stop to consider is that the principles expressed in the Preamble to the Declaration are just as important today as they were in 1776.
From the Desk of Senator Brent Jackson, July 2026
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 land transfers
The following land transfers were filed with the Lenoir County Register of Deeds:
Jones County Student Awarded Cypress Creek Energy Scholarship
Cypress Creek Energy is pleased to announce that one student from Jones County, NC has been selected to receive a 2026 Energizing Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship award, recognizing their academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to shaping the future of their communities.
Help Wanted: Remodel and Maintenance Mechanic
Performs skilled tasks in the maintenance and repair of apartments and facilities. Must have basic carpentry, plumbing, electrical, wall preparation, and painting skills. Must be able to work independently.
Evelyn Dove Coleman: Care Givers
It seems as though every family has or has had a person who became a caregiver at some point. Some took care of a disabled or a sick sibling, parent, or child for some period of time. To me, care-giving requires a special type of person. If you know someone who has been one, raise your hand.
Meet the Cast Bringing Footloose to Life at LCC
This summer, Footloose: The Musical brings the Turner Stage to life with high-energy music, electrifying dance, and a story about friendship, freedom, and standing up for what you believe in. Featuring a dynamic score that blends high-energy pop-rock with heartfelt ballads, Footloose delivers thrilling choreography, heartfelt performances, and unforgettable songs that will have you dancing in your seat.
Lenoir County death notices
The following is a list of people who have recently passed away in Lenoir County:"
Help Wanted: Property Manager
Under limited supervision, manages the property, which includes orientations, rent collection, annual re-examinations, interim rent adjustments and the move-in process including lease execution. Manages maintenance staff. Executes court papers for evictions. Must be able to work independently. Must have a working knowledge of Word, Excel and good math skills.
Cooking with Tammy Kelly: Happy Fourth of July and Happy National Hot Dog Month!
In honor of one of America’s most beloved foods, the hot dog, we thought it would be fun to introduce you to some of the many unique and delicious ways it can be served. Trust us, there are more than you might imagine.
Lenoir County restaurant inspections
The following inspections were conducted by the Lenoir County Health Department:
Lenoir County Farmer's Market update July 4, 2026
Join us for hot dogs with all the fixings, grilled street corn, homemade apple hand pies, shaved ice, local vendors, family activities, and a celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
Obituary: Rev. James “Jimmy” Herbert Miller Jr.
Rev. James “Jimmy” Herbert Miller Jr., 98, went home to be with his Lord on July 1st, 2026. He was a United Methodist minister for over 40 years, serving in the NC Conference, where he was currently the oldest living member.
AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary delivers handmade blankets to veterans home
Just in time for Americas 250th Anniversary the Amvets delivered the last 48 handmade blankets to the veterans at the North Carolina Veteran's home. This project "Wrapping our Veterans with Love" has been an important part of this service organizations mission this year.
NC House Huddle: NC State budget approved by General Assembly
Newsletter for the NC House.
Juvenile Arrested After Breaking Into Grainger Stadium
On June 2, 2026, at approximately 3:37 a.m., Kinston Police Department B-Squad officers were patrolling the area when they discovered an open gate at Grainger Stadium.