BIG ANNOUNCEMENT 🚨 Free Classifieds + What Every Onslow Resident Should Know This Week

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BIG ANNOUNCEMENT 🚨 Free Classifieds + What Every Onslow Resident Should Know This Week

Shutdown update, DMV teen license upgrade, scam alert, local events, and a limited-time freebie for locals.

Roy Shipley

Nov 6, 2025

21 Days Until Thanksgiving

49 Days Until Christmas

Quote Of The Day

"Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars."

—Norman Vincent Peale

Onslow County Election Results

See results here

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Government Shutdown Drags On: Onslow County's Military Heartland Bears the Brunt

by Roy Shipley

In the shadow of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, where the roar of helicopters from New River Air Station often drowns out the coastal breeze, Onslow County's 200,000 residents are no strangers to the rhythms of military life. Home to Camp Johnson, Camp Geiger, and Stone Bay, the county's economy pulses with the steady paychecks of over 6,500 federal workers - many tied to these bases, making the military the area's top employer by a wide margin.

But since the federal government shutdown slammed shut on October 1, 2025, that pulse has faltered. Now on Day 38, the impasse in Washington is rippling through Jacksonville's restaurants, Swansboro's shops, and family budgets across the county, turning a routine fiscal cliff into a grinding test of resilience.

The Mounting Toll on Families and the Local Economy

For many in Onslow, the shutdown isn't abstract - it's empty refrigerators and skipped school events. At Camp Lejeune alone, a staggering two-thirds of the workforce - roughly 65% of active-duty support staff and civilians - has been furloughed, leaving essential operations like training and maintenance in limbo while active troops report for duty without pay guarantees.

Statewide, North Carolina's 83,000 federal employees face similar uncertainty, but here in this military enclave, the hit lands hardest: local businesses report a 15-20% dip in foot traffic as furloughed families tighten belts, and programs like food assistance are teetering on the edge.

November's Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) benefits, vital for thousands of low-income households near the bases, were delayed last week, forcing families to scramble for alternatives amid rising grocery costs.

On base, non-essential services - from child care referrals to environmental health checks tied to the ongoing water contamination lawsuits - have paused, compounding stress for service members already navigating deployments and PCS moves.

"It's not just lost wages," says one anonymous Lejeune civilian employee. "It's the fear that this becomes the new normal."

Economically, the shutdown echoes the 2018-2019 standoff but with sharper edges: contractors are idled, real estate agents see military relocations stall, and the county's $1.2 billion annual base payroll infusion is at risk. As President Trump's administration clashes with Democrats over healthcare subsidies and border funding, the White House has even floated withholding SNAP payments for 42 million Americans until a deal is struck - a threat that could devastate Onslow's food pantries.

A Glimmer of Hope? Prognosis for Resolution

As the shutdown breaks the record for longest in U.S. history, Senate Majority Leader John Thune struck an optimistic note Monday, signaling the chamber's intent to revote on a House funding bill on Tuesday. But, at the conclusion of the Tuesday vote, those hopes were dashed once again - as of this writing, the government is still shut down.

Bipartisan talks have edged forward, with Republicans open to tweaks on disaster aid and Democrats pushing for protections on mandatory programs like Social Security. Yet the deadlock persists: Trump's insistence on tying funding to immigration reforms has stalled progress, and analysts peg the odds of a pre-Thanksgiving resolution at 60-70%, per recent Capitol Hill briefings.

If history is a guide - the 35-day 2018 shutdown ended abruptly with a compromise - relief could come swiftly once concessions align. But with SNAP deadlines looming and holiday spending season underway, every day adds pressure. North Carolina's congressional delegation, including Rep. Greg Murphy, is amplifying local voices in hearings, urging swift action to safeguard military communities.

Practical Tips to Weather the Storm

While lawmakers bicker, Onslow families aren't powerless. Here's how to navigate the uncertainty:

Tap Unemployment Benefits: Furloughed feds qualify for state unemployment - file immediately via the NC Division of Employment Security (des.nc.gov). Expect $350 weekly max, retroactive to Day 1.
*Note There is a caveat here: once the shutdown ends, if you return to work, and are paid retroactive to the day you were furloughed - you more than likely will have to pay back any and all of the money you received from Unemployment.
Leverage Back Pay Protections: The 2019 Government Employee Fair Treatment Act ensures retroactive pay once resolved - don't panic-sell assets.
Seek Local Relief: Onslow's United Way (252-455-3011) and base Family Readiness Officers offer emergency food, bill assistance, and counseling. National Guard mutual aid funds are open to eligible Marines.
Budget Ruthlessly: Review essentials - cut subscriptions, meal-plan with Onslow's free community gardens. Apps like Mint track outflows; aim for a 3-month emergency fund if possible.
Stay Connected: Join AFGE or NARFE forums for peer support and updates. Report hardships to your reps - constituent pressure works.

Onslow County has weathered storms before - hurricanes, deployments, you name it. This shutdown tests that grit, but with community solidarity and a dash of D.C. compromise, blue skies are on the horizon. Hang in there, Marines and families: your service doesn't stop, and neither does our resolve.

For more resources, visit OPM.gov/shutdown or call the FTC at 1-877-FTC-HELP for scam alerts amid the chaos.

NCDMV Launches Online Upgrade

for Teen Drivers

Building on recent expansions to online services under Senate Bill 245, the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) today announced the launch of a new online option for eligible teen drivers to upgrade from a Level 2 Limited Provisional License to a Level 3 Full Provisional License.

Previously, teens that have held their Level 2 license for at least six months without moving violations were required to visit a driver license office in person to advance to the Level 3 Full Provisional License. Now, eligible drivers can complete the upgrade process entirely online.

The online upgrade is a two-step process, one step completed by a parent or guardian and the second step completed by the teen. The parent/guardian begins by . . . read more

Scammers Are Using Fake Websites in a Twist on Jury Duty Scams

The holidays are right around the corner, and it's not just shoppers who'll be rushing around - scammers love this time of year too, when we're all distracted and trusting. They ramp up their tricks to swipe your money and info faster than you can unwrap a gift.

One persistent ploy? Impersonating the police to shake you down over "missed" jury duty. But here's the latest twist: instead of just demanding cash on the spot, they're directing you to phony websites to harvest your personal details - and your hard-earned dollars.

It kicks off with a chilling call that mimics an officer from your local police department (spoiler: it's not). The voice on the line insists you've skipped jury duty (odds are, you haven't) and face immediate arrest unless you hop online to cough up a fine (total fiction). They'll text or email a link to a slick-looking site with an official-sounding URL and bogus government badges. Once there, it'll prompt you to punch in your birthdate, Social Security number, or other sensitive info under the guise of "verifying your debt."

From there, it might hit you with a bogus bill up to $10,000, or nudge you toward a so-called "government kiosk" (pure invention) for payment via cryptocurrency. Every step? A brazen scam designed to drain your accounts and identity.

Arm yourself with these red flags:

Real cops don't phone-threaten: Legitimate law enforcement won't call out of the blue to announce your arrest or warn you'll be hauled off if you hang up. (And ignore that caller ID flashing your local precinct - scammers spoof it like pros.)
Payment demands scream fraud: Only crooks insist on untraceable methods like cash, gift cards, peer-to-peer apps, crypto, or wire services such as Western Union or MoneyGram. Official fines go through verified channels, like courts, or clerks.

If this call lands in your lap, slam that end button and report it pronto to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov - it helps shut these schemes down. Doubting it's fake? Skip their shady link entirely. Instead, Google your local court's official site for jury duty status, or dial their verified number from a trusted directory. Stay vigilant this season - your peace of mind is the best holiday gift you can give yourself.

Submissions must be received NO LATER than 12 noon

on Wednesday to be included in Thursday's edition.

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(Mention you saw this in the "Onslow Insider")

Submissions must be received NO LATER than 12 noon

on Wednesday to be included in Thursday's edition.

Calling All Photographers!

We’re gathering fall photos from across Onslow County - colorful leaves, cozy porches, and everything in between! Fall in Onslow County is one of the most beautiful times of year - and we want to see it through your eyes!

Send your favorite autumn photo, first name, and what part of Onslow County your pic is from to onslowinsider@gmail.com by 12 noon Wednesday for a chance to be featured in the Thursday’s Onslow Insider.

If no name is included, your photo will appear as anonymous.

PICS OF LAST NIGHT'S SUPERMOON

or the BEAVER MOON

(and some random pics of sunset)

EVENTS/HAPPENINGS

Beach Boys - Josh Turner, Craig Morgan

In Concert

Get ready to catch the wave of music with The Beach Boys on Friday and Josh Turner, Craig Morgan, and Paige King Johnson on Saturday!

Get Tickets Here

WHEN: Friday, Nov 7, 2025 - 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM

Saturday, Nov 8, 2025 - 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM

WHERE: 517 Roland Avenue, Surf City, NC

Veterans Tribute

Get ready for not just one - but two weekends of fun celebrating and honoring our veterans! Veterans Tribute NC returns with a full list of activities, including the annual Veterans Day Parade, a family fun event at the Jacksonville Commons, tours of the Lejeune Memorial Gardens, and the Veterans Walk of Honor. Make plans now to join us in Jacksonville, NC.

From November 1 - November 11 enjoy the following ongoing events:

Veterans Walk of Honor:

Located at 109 Montford Landing Road you'll have a chance to experience the Veterans Walk of Honor. Submissions for Veterans are accepted throughout the year and are featured in signs that will be displayed throughout the Gardens.

Lejeune Memorial Gardens Self-Guided Tours:

Take a self-guided tour through the many national memorials featured at the Lejeune Memorial Gardens! Use your phone to scan the QR codes at each site to learn about our military heritage: including the largest 3-D Eagle, Globe, and Anchor Statue, the Montford Point Marine Memorial, and the 2nd largest Vietnam Veteran Memorial in the United States which lists all the names of the fallen in alphabetical order.

Friday, November 7 - Freedom Fountain Observance:

Join the Onslow Civic Affairs Committee at 9:30 AM located at 895 New Bridge Street. This observance is held each year to dedicate the fountain to those who have served and invites representatives from each municipality to add a few drops of water to the fountain pool.

Friday, November 7 - Red, White, and Salute:
Starting at 5 PM enjoy an afternoon of fun, food, music, and more at the Jacksonville Commons! This free community event will feature a headline performance by one of country music's most dynamic acts - LANCO! Don't miss this patriotic celebration of service and community spirit!

Saturday, November 8 - Veterans Day Parade:

Come out and show your support for our Nation's troops and veterans. Hosted by the Rolling Thunder Inc. Chapter NC-5, the parade will start at 10 AM in front of Coastal Carolina Community College and continue down Western Blvd. to Liberty Drive.

Tuesday, November 11 - DAV Veterans Day Observance:
Located at 300 Sherwood Road, join the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) organization at 11 AM on Veteran's Day to show appreciation and admiration for veterans around the world.

November 9 - November 11 - Military Basketball Association Tournament:

Sponsored by the National Montford Point Marine Association and hosted by the Eastern North Carolina Marine Basketball Men's Varsity Basketball program this tournament promotes the military athlete through the classic game of basketball. Join us at the Jacksonville Commons Recreation Complex, you won't want to miss this competition. All benefits will go to an Onslow/Jacksonville Charity.

Operation Green Light:

Operation Green Light allows the community to show support for veterans by shining a green light from their home or business. This lets veterans know they are seen, appreciated and supported. The City will be providing free bulbs at events leading up to the week of November 1-11 and they will also be available for pickup at City Hall.

Onslow County Farmers Market

The Onslow County Farmers Market was developed to provide a place for local growers, producers and artisans to sell their goods directly to consumers, to educate them about farming and encourage the community to embrace the seasonality of produce. The Market not only supports local farm families but also provides a family friendly environment where the community can gather.

Onslow County Farmers Market is a local, seasonal market open every Saturday through November. Local produce, meat, eggs, baked goods and more!

WHEN: Saturday, Nov 8, 2025 - 8 AM to 12 Noon

WHERE: 4024 Richlands Hwy., Jacksonville

Red, White, and Salute

Join us on Friday, November 7 from 5 - 9 PM at Jacksonville Commons (100 Recreation Lane) for our Red, White & Salute celebration!

Enjoy an evening filled with:

Delicious food trucks & local craft vendors

Axe throwing & mechanical bull riding

A beer garden hosted by Salty Turtle Beer Company

Live music from multi-platinum selling country band ~ LANCO with special guest Cooper Greer

And a spectacular fireworks show to close out the night!

Schedule:
Cooper Greer - 5:15P
LANCO - 7:15P
Fireworks - 9P

Guests are welcome to bring lawn-chairs and blankets to enjoy the live music and fireworks show.

WHEN: Friday, Nov 7, 2025 - 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

WHERE: 100 Recreation Lane, Jacksonville, NC

Comedy Show

Comedy show at Playhouse Nightclub featuring Raleigh, NC

comedians Weston Suggs & Greg Capra

An open mic after the show.

8pm to 10pm. 18+ with valid ID. Full bar.
$15 tickets online at www.playhousejax.com/
$20 tickets at the door.
Doors open at 7pm. Bar is open till 2am.

WHEN: Friday, Nov 7, 2025 - 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM

WHERE: 531 Richlands Hwy, Jacksonville, NC

Carolina Mini Stock Challenge

This Saturday, Don’t Miss the Action as the Carolina Mini-Stock Challenge finishes up their season at Carteret Speedway!

GREEN FLAG 3PM!

In Action:

Carolina Mini Stocks

Pro-4 Legends

UCAR BOMBERS

General Admission Tickets $10

Military (Active, Retired or Veteran with ID) $5

Kids 6-10 $5

Kids 5 & Under FREE

Trackside Spots are Available at the Gate!

All tickets are for purchase at the Gate Only!

Drivers: Practice Friday - 1pm Until Dark

Driver Registration: https://www.myracepass.com/tracks/3747/registrations/12603

WHEN: Saturday, Nov 8, 2025 - 3:00 PM

WHERE: 501 Whitehouse Fork Rd, Swansboro, NC

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Got a small business, side hustle, or holiday sale?

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Announcements:

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Jobs:

Services:

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Yard Sales:

Lost & Found:

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THE WEEK AHEAD IN WEATHER

Some Helpful Home Hacks

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