SOUTHPORT, NC (WECT) – U.S. Representative Mike McIntyre announced Wednesday that the Southport Volunteer Fire Department has been awarded $66,500 in federal funds to go towards operations and safety improvements, according to McIntyre’s press secretary.

Additionally, the Whiteville Fire Department received $43,225.

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WECT) – A senator from Brunswick County will soon become a co-chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.

According to a press release, Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) announced Thursday he plans to appoint Sen. Bill Rabon (R-Brunswick) and Sen. Bob Rucho (R-Mecklenburg) when the legislature convenes early next year.

"Senators Rucho and Rabon are both hard-working legislators whose commitment to balancing the state budget without raising taxes will serve the Finance Committee well," said Berger in a press release. "As the economy continues to recover, their leadership will be instrumental to reforming our antiquated tax system to encourage growth, lure businesses to North Carolina and jumpstart private sector job creation."

The finance committee oversees the state's tax system and controls the way in which state government collects revenue.

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WECT) – Brunswick County residents will have the opportunity to vote and get flu shots at the same place and time Friday, according to a news release from the health department.

The options are part of a program called Vote and Vax, and public health nurses and staff will be available at polling places at North High School in Leland, the Senior Site in Southport and the Armory in Shallotte from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Pricewise, the vaccines range from $38 for the regular shot, $47 for the FluMist and $56 for the high dose.