THE HWY 70 CONNECTOR: February-March 2026 Edition

Dear Neighbor,

It’s been a full and productive month across Lenoir, Greene, and Jones counties, and I’ve been grateful for the opportunity to stay engaged with so many of you at local events, community meetings and celebrations.

From breaking ground on new economic development projects to celebrating achievements in our schools and recognizing the leaders who make Eastern North Carolina strong — there’s a lot of positive momentum happening across our district. I remain focused on creating opportunity, strengthening rural communities, and making sure our region continues to move forward towards prosperity.

Thank you for the continued trust you place in me to represent you in the NC House. As always, if my office can ever be a resource for you and your family, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

At your service,

Chris Humphrey

State Representative

GROUNDBREAKING IN JONES COUNTY

I was proud to join local leaders in Trenton for the groundbreaking of Jones County’s new 20,000-square-foot industrial shell building.

This investment will help recruit new businesses, create jobs for our residents, and strengthen Eastern North Carolina’s economy.

Projects like this give folks in our communities the opportunity to build their careers right here at home. The future is bright for Jones County!

STATE AUDITOR DAVE BOLIEK VISITS ROTARY CLUB OF KINSTON

It was a pleasure to have Auditor Dave Boliek and his team from the NC Office of the State Auditor join us for the Kinston Rotary Club meeting at King’s BBQ.

We appreciated the update on the important work being done to ensure accountability and transparency in state government.

GREENE COUNTY OPENS NEW PLAYGROUND AT RECREATION COMPLEX

Greene County recently celebrated the opening of its first inclusive playground at the Recreation Complex in Snow Hill. Funded by a $250,000 grant from Trillium Health Resources, the playground features wheelchair-accessible surfaces, sensory-friendly equipment, and a liberty swing.

This is a great example of how community partnerships can expand opportunities for families and strengthen quality of life in Eastern NC.

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THANK YOU, EMERGENCY RESPONDERS!

Thank you to all the first responders, law enforcement officers, utility crews, and emergency personnel who worked to keep us safe during the recent winter storm in Eastern North Carolina. Your dedication doesn’t go unnoticed, and our community is grateful. God bless!

CANDIDATE PROFILE FOR 2026 ELECTION

I’m honored to serve the people of Eastern North Carolina and grateful for the opportunity to share a little more about my background, my family, and why I continue to work every day for the people of Lenoir, Greene, and Jones counties.

I’m on your ballot for re-election to continue making advancements for our rural communities, infrastructure, broadband access, flood resilience, and to create opportunities right here at home.

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NATIONAL GIRLS & WOMEN IN SPORTS DAY

Earlier this month, we celebrated National Girls & Women in Sports Day, recognizing the impact athletics has on building strong and confident young women.

Sports teach discipline, responsibility, and perseverance, values that extend far beyond the field or court. I’m grateful for the coaches, parents, and communities who support female athletes and help ensure they have the chance to succeed through fair competition.

SOUP & BOWL EVENT WITH THE KINSTON COMMUNITY COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS

It was wonderful to see such a great turnout supporting the arts in Kinston at the Soup and a Bowl event hosted by the Community Council for the Arts.

With more than 300 tickets sold and 25 talented soup makers, it was a true testament to how much our community values the arts. I was honored to attend, support this important work, and enjoy some great food with our friends and neighbors.

LEADERSHIP DAY AT POLLOCKSVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

What a privilege it was to participate in Leadership Day at Pollocksville Elementary School as they were considered for Leader in Me Lighthouse School status.

The students, teachers, and staff truly showed out! The future is very bright, and I was honored to experience the eagerness to learn and lead, along with the passion and enthusiasm of such dedicated young people.

So proud of these Panthers and grateful for a community that continues to invest in the next generation of leaders right here in Eastern North Carolina.

VETERANS FARM PROJECT IN JONES COUNTY

During a recent Jones County Board of Commissioners meeting, county leaders heard an update on the Veterans Farm Project, a program designed to help veterans transition into agriculture while supporting mental health and personal well-being.

The program provides hands-on farming experience, training, and structure to help veterans build skills, purpose, and community as they move into civilian life. For more information, contact the Jones County Veterans Services Office at 252-448-1121.

CONGRATULATIONS, JAMES "JIMBO" PERRY

Congratulations to all the outstanding recipients recognized by the Chief Justice’s Commission on Professionalism for their commitment to integrity, civility, and the highest standards of the legal profession.

A special congratulations to my friend, James “Jimbo” Perry, on receiving the inaugural Melvin Wright Jr. Peacemaker Award. Jimbo has long exemplified servant leadership here in Kinston and across Eastern North Carolina.

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LENOIR COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET

Congratulations to all the outstanding local leaders honored at the Lenoir County Chamber of Commerce annual awards banquet!

From emerging young professionals to lifelong pillars of our community, each recipient reflects the very best of Lenoir County — leadership, service, and a deep commitment to helping our community grow and thrive.

To every award recipient: Thank you for the countless ways you strengthen Eastern North Carolina. We are blessed with remarkable people who continue to invest in our future!

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JONES COUNTY BROADBAND EXPANSION

Jones County continues to make progress expanding high-speed internet through the CAB program with Brightspeed. Construction is underway in multiple areas, with 27 locations now able to access fiber service. Once complete, the project will bring reliable broadband to approximately 192 locations countywide, focusing on unserved and underserved areas.

IMPORTANT ELECTION INFORMATION

Early voting is underway across Eastern North Carolina!

While I do not have an opponent in the Primary Election, I will be on the ballot this November for the General Election. I encourage everyone to stay engaged, informed, and involved in the process.

You can learn more, find your early voting site, and view your sample ballot by visiting the North Carolina State Board of Elections webpage at: www.ncsbe.gov/voting.

Be sure to get out and make your voice heard — your vote matters, and our communities are strongest when we all participate.