⬇️ Josh’s Journal ⬇️
December 23, 2025

Josh’s Holiday Message

Happy holidays, John!

Despite the chill in the air, this really is a great time of year here in North Carolina. So many of our communities show themselves at their best during this season, from light shows to holiday concerts — and especially with neighbors stepping up to be there for one another.

Whatever you are celebrating this season, I hope your holidays are full of the joy of being together with those you care about and that 2026 brings all you hope for.

All my best wishes,

Josh Stein

A Record Year for Job Announcements

We have a big economic development update to share: This month, Josh was proud to announce that the Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership have brought more than 34,000 jobs to North Carolina — the highest number of job commitments to NC in any year to date.

Here’s what Josh had to say:

“Thanks to our skilled workforce, our business-friendly climate, and remarkable quality of life, North Carolina is the top state for business in the country. We are hard at work to continue leading the way and living up to the promise in our state toast — North Carolina is the land where the weak grow strong and the strong grow great.”

Honoring Military Heroes

Josh joined the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources to honor the service of three exceptional military veterans and induct them into the North Carolina Military Hall of Firsts, as the inaugural class of inductees.

Here’s what Josh had to say:

“North Carolina has a long and proud military tradition, and today we recognize three servicemembers whose achievements broke new ground. Their leadership and sacrifice reflect so well on our state. I remain committed to standing with our military community and building a top state for military families.”

Helping Our Neighbors

Josh spent some time volunteering with the Second Harvest of Northwest North Carolina because none of our neighbors should go hungry — especially during the holiday season.

If you’d like to support their mission and a contribution fits in your budget, you can click here to donate to Second Harvest, or consider donating to a food bank in your area.