Dear Neighbor,

As we transition into the spring, I want to express my sincere gratitude for your continued support and engagement. We remain steadfast in our commitment to serving the wonderful communities of Lenoir, Jones, and Greene counties.

In this edition of our newsletter, you'll find updates and insights on our recent efforts and initiatives, both in Raleigh and at home in ENC. Your feedback and involvement are invaluable to us, so please share this email with your friends & neighbors -- and feel free to reply if you have any questions or comments.

Thank you for your trust, support, and prayers. Should you need any assistance or have concerns to share, our office is always here for you.

At your service,
Chris Humphrey
State Representative

Happy National Agriculture Week!

As we celebrate the heart and soul of Eastern North Carolina, let's take a moment to honor our hardworking farmers and agricultural workers. Your dedication not only sustains our local economy but feeds families across the nation and the world.

Agriculture is more than just a job; it's a way of life. This week, we recognize the challenges you face and the contributions you make to keep our communities strong and healthy.

Thank you to all our farmers and agricultural workers for your unwavering commitment. Your hard work does not go unnoticed, and it is greatly appreciated not just during National Ag Week, but every single day.

Food doesn't come from grocery stores. Thank a farmer!

It was an honor to participate in the groundbreaking and ribbon-cutting ceremony at InfinityLink Communications. This was a momentous occasion, highlighting the strides we're making to expand broadband access in Lenoir and Greene Counties, thanks to NTIA funding.

This new facility is a critical step towards enhancing our community's connectivity and ensuring our residents and businesses thrive in the digital age, and I am proud to support this progress.

We recently joined other state and local leaders to announce a $12 million supplemental grant awarded to Greene County Schools for the construction of the new Greene Central High School. This funding highlights our unwavering commitment to enhancing educational facilities and opportunities for Eastern North Carolina students.

The construction of this state-of-the-art high school is not just an investment in bricks and mortar; it's an investment in the future of our children and our communities. By providing a modern, conducive learning environment, we are setting the stage for greater academic achievements and overall community development.

READ MORE >>>

We had a great time celebrating the ribbon cutting and grand opening of the new Lenoir County SPCA facility in Kinston. This new facility enhances quality of life in our community — creating space for administrative offices, an animal relinquishing area, a pet adoption area, a laundry room, and an outdoor play area. Special recognition goes to LCSPCA President Tonya Adams, board member Randy Kelley, and our friends at the USDA Rural Development Office for making this project a reality.

We’re thrilled to announce that revitalization has begun at Emma Webb Park in Kinston, thanks to a joint effort with a $500,000 grant from the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund and a match of city funds (hat tip to Mayor Don D. Hardy).

This project will enhance our community with walking trails throughout the park, overlooking the stream that flows through the park, new event space, splash pads for children, three new basketball and tennis courts, picnic shelters and a beautiful amphitheater. I'm proud to support this project and excited to see it bring our community together. Stay tuned for more updates!

It was an honor to speak at the ribbon cutting ceremony for Heritage Family Health and Wellness’ newly expanded facility in Snow Hill. This business has seen tremendous growth over the last several years while providing comprehensive healthcare access to the people of Greene County. We’re delighted to have this organization continue to benefit our community.

I had the privilege of joining faculty, staff, and students from East Carolina University on a tour through the North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region, a cornerstone of ENC's burgeoning aviation sector.

This visit illuminated the exciting developments and partnerships taking shape in our region, particularly between academia and leading industry players such as Draken International and flyExclusive. These collaborations are not only propelling the growth of our local aerospace industry but are also crucial in preparing our workforce for the high-skilled, rewarding careers of tomorrow.

As we continue to foster these invaluable partnerships, we reinforce our commitment to economic development, educational excellence, and the prosperity of our communities in Eastern North Carolina. I am inspired by the potential these collaborations unlock and remain dedicated to supporting initiatives that drive our region forward.

READ MORE >>>

It was an honor to visit Maury Correctional Institution with my wife and her criminal justice students from Lenoir Community College. Prisons can be tough, but this facility was clean and well managed. I must admit that I have never visited a prison. Like most, it's not a place that rises to the top of the "things to do" list. But to see the dedicated employees taking pride in their jobs, and to listen to students ask tough questions made the visit one I will never forget.