Thank you for taking the time to read my most recent updates from Eastern North Carolina and Washington, D.C. As always, it remains a true honor and a privilege to represent you in Congress! If this email was forwarded to you, you can subscribe to my e-newsletter here.
Sealed proposals will be received by the KINSTON HOUSING AUTHORITY for the CAPITAL FUND PROJECT NC 004-50123 and NC 004-50124 until 3:00 PM, THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2025, and immediately thereafter publicly opened and read for the furnishing of labor, material and equipment entering into the Electrical Improvements Project at Simon Bright NC 004-1.
August 2024 brought a mix of community interest and breaking news to Neuse News readers. The viral TikTok claim about Aunt Jemima's legacy sparked important conversations, while the tragic case of a Lenoir County couple arrested for animal cruelty after dogs were found dead drew significant attention.
Consumer Horticulture Agent in Lenoir County, Paige Petticrew was recently invited to speak at the NC Cooperative Extension Agriculture Programs Foundation Board in Cary, NC. Paige received an Extension Innovation Grant in the spring of 2023 and was asked to report on how she utilized the grant funding to the board.
For many young people, their first encounters with democracy come not through casting a ballot but through debates, rallies, and protests. These experiences serve as powerful introductions to the political process, shaping their views and sparking engagement.
The following land transfers were filed with the Lenoir County Register of Deeds:
Teenagers often face stereotypes of being disconnected from politics, but a group of tenth graders from Lenoir County Early College High School is proving that what matters to them goes beyond the surface. In a roundtable discussion, these students candidly shared the platforms and issues that catch their attention, from education and immigration to public safety and equality.
July was a month of significant events and community impact in Lenoir County, ranging from troubling allegations of animal cruelty to promising local business developments.
The following businesses were filed the North Carolina Secretary of State:
Politics may not typically top the list of interests for teenagers, but a group of tenth graders from Lenoir County Early College High School proves otherwise. In a roundtable discussion, ten students shared their thoughts on why young people engage—or fail to engage—in the political process.
June brought exciting milestones and community developments to the forefront, from a historic fishing achievement at the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament to the potential opening of a new Jersey Mike’s in Kinston. Nearly 50 arrests in Lenoir County’s Operation Summer Jump highlighted ongoing law enforcement efforts, while Ambleside Preparatory Academy provided an innovative approach to education. Additionally, local businesses teamed up to bring fresh flavors to Kinston’s culinary scene.
The first cohorts of the Teens Lead Internship Program at the Kinston-Lenoir County Public Library and Greene County Public Library wrapped up this month. Congratulations to participants Layla Flores, McKenzie McCoy, Kevonte Parks, Camila Cisneros-Perez, Kaylee Sugg, and Daysy Vasquez for their successful completion of the program.
A man already incarcerated at the Lenoir County Jail received an additional felony charge on Thursday of selling a vehicle that wasn’t his.
On 12/20/2024 around 12:10 am Greene County Deputies along with Greene County EMS responded to a subject who had been shot at a residence on Royce Dr in the Jason area of Greene County. Upon arrival Deputies found the resident of the home, 62-year-old Melvin Hawkins had been shot multiple times and that the shooter had fled the scene.
May was a month filled with celebration, reflection, and impactful news in Kinston and beyond. The winners of the 43rd Annual BBQ Fest on the Neuse were crowned, showcasing the region's love for whole-hog cooking. A viral incident involving a juvenile prompted a public response from the sheriff, while a 16-year-old Early College student inspired many by graduating with both a diploma and a degree. The Laughing Owl Restaurant announced its closure, marking the end of an era, and investigations into the use of force by the Kinston Police Department raised community discussions.
