The Benefits of Continuous Learning
by Kayla Bell
Continuous learning, the pursuit of knowledge and skills throughout life, is a cornerstone of personal and professional growth. It transcends mere skill acquisition, enriching individuals with a profound impact on various aspects of life. READ MORE
Recipe of the Day: Cajun Shrimp
by Kayla Bell
Today’s recipe of the day is a flavor explosion waiting to happen – Cajun Shrimp. This dish takes inspiration from the vibrant cuisine of Louisiana, known for its bold spices and smoky flavors. READ MORE
Word of the Day: Aesthetic
by Kayla Bell
Aesthetic is an adjective referring to the appreciation of beauty or good taste, particularly in art, music, and literature. It encompasses the study of beauty and the principles governing taste. READ MORE
How To: Dressing Fashionably on a Budget
by Kayla Bell
Basic Knife Skills for Safe & Efficient Cooking
by Kayla Bell
Thoughts While Shaving
The National Weather Service issued a flood warning late Thursday for portions of northern South Carolina and southeastern North Carolina to continue through Friday (today) …
The Olympics “kicked-off” last evening in what was expected to be the most ambitious opening ceremony ever attempted … Over a billion people around the world were expected to tune in … READ MORE
3 Things To Know For Friday
1. Outlander Tour: Saturday, 11 a.m., Moores Creek National Battlefield, 40 Patriots Hall Drive, Currie.
2. Nadine Shipman book signing: Saturday, 3 p.m., Clarkton Town Hall, 81 North Elm Street.
3. Blood Drive: Aug. 6, 1-6 p.m., Lake Church, 1930 White Lake Drive, Elizabethtown. READ MORE
• BLADEN ONLINE’S COMMUNITY CALENDAR
This Day in History For July 26
1945 – United States, Britain and China demand the unconditional surrender of Japan during World War II, but the Japanese government disregards the ultimatum.
1979 – Estimated 43 inches of rain falls in Alvin, Texas.
1990 – President George H.W. Bush signs the American With Disabilities Act. READ MORE
STORIES FROM THURSDAY, JULY 25
Recipe of the Day: Chicken Tikka Masala
by Kayla Bell
Craving a restaurant-worthy meal bursting with flavor and aroma? Look no further than Chicken Tikka Masala, a classic Indian dish combining tender, marinated chicken with a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. READ MORE
10 Fun Facts of the Day: World Records
by Kayla Bell
The world is a fascinating place, filled with extraordinary individuals and mind-boggling achievements. From the depths of the ocean to the vastness of space, human ingenuity and the natural world continue to amaze us. READ MORE
10 Fun Facts of the Day: Ocean Creatures
by Kayla Bell
The ocean, a vast expanse teeming with life, is a treasure trove of fascinating creatures.
From the tiniest plankton to the largest whales, marine life continues to amaze and inspire us. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Summer time for sure … Yesterday’s high temp … near 92 degrees … good rainfall … about a half inch at the local weather station … No doubt, the totals varied greatly by location … All welcomed … Thankful … and more in the forecast thru Saturday…
Brief headlines related to a crash on I-95 yesterday … 5 killed in Wilson County involving 3 tractor-trailers and 2 SUVs … No details … but headlines get your attention when you have family in the area on the interstate … READ MORE
STORIES FROM WEDNESDAY, JULY 24
International Self-Care Day: July 24
by Kayla Bell
On July 24th, the world comes together to celebrate International Self-Care Day, a global recognition of the vital importance of prioritizing one’s well-being. This day serves as a powerful reminder that taking care of oneself isn’t selfish; it’s essential for leading a fulfilling and balanced life. READ MORE
Steps to Cultivating Self-Love & Acceptance
by Kayla Bell
Self-love, often misunderstood as narcissism, is the foundation of a fulfilling life.
It’s about accepting oneself unconditionally, flaws and all, and treating oneself with kindness and compassion. READ MORE
The Benefits of Vacationing
by Kayla Bell
Vacations are essential for overall well-being.
They serve as a crucial antidote to the relentless pace of modern life, offering a much-needed respite from daily stressors. READ MORE
How To: Developing a Productive Morning Routine
by Kayla Bell
The adage “early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise” holds a kernel of truth. A well-structured morning routine can significantly impact your productivity, mood, and overall well-being. READ MORE
Word of the Day: Quixotic
by Kayla Bell
Quixotic is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is foolishly impractical, especially in the pursuit of ideals. It often implies a touch of romantic idealism or a tendency to act on extravagant or chivalrous impulses without regard for practicality. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
July 2024 … Our weather forecast is for more hot weather … Highs in the low 90s today … chance of rain … 80%. Tonight … mostly cloudy with a low around 74 … and a 60% chance of rain…
Being a huge sports fan … Enjoy checking in on the local, state and national events … Locally, high school football practice begins soon … The start of the 2024 Paris Olympics is just days away … READ MORE
STORIES FROM TUESDAY, JULY 23
CLOSURE NOTICE: Mercer Mill Brown Marsh Road (SR 1700) and Elwell Ferry
Contributed
Bladen County, NC – July 23, 2024: According to Bridget Ellison with the North Carolina Department of Transportation Bladen County Maintenance, Mercer Mill Brown Marsh Road (SR 1700) will be closed north of Harrelson Road (1711) starting Tuesday, July 23rd at 8:00 AM through Tuesday, July 30th at 5:00 PM. This closure is necessary for crossline replacement. READ MORE
Weekly Horoscope: July 22 – July 28
by Kayla Bell
Cancer (June 21 – July 22): Cancers, the nurturers of the zodiac, might find themselves needing to choose their words with extra care this week. Before launching into an impassioned speech, consider the potential consequences. READ MORE
Recipe of the Day: French Toast
by Kayla Bell
French toast, a timeless breakfast favorite, is more than just a simple dish of soaked bread and eggs. It’s a canvas for creativity, a comforting hug on a plate, and the perfect way to start a lazy weekend morning. READ MORE
10 Fun Facts of the Day: Broadway
by Kayla Bell
The bright lights, the booming voices, the captivating stories – Broadway has captivated audiences for over 170 years. But beyond the glitz and glamour, there’s a treasure trove of fascinating stories and surprising facts waiting to be discovered. READ MORE
Word of the Day: Luminous
by Kayla Bell
Today’s word of the day is “luminous,” a word that evokes a sense of brightness and radiance. But its meaning extends beyond the physical realm, encompassing intellectual brilliance and captivating qualities. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
High temp Monday … near 89 degrees and over an inch of rain throughout the day … a slow drizzle before midnight … All much needed…
Topic of politics picking up, as one would expect … Both parties … Interesting times … Not likely to change much with the election set for early November … The money is flowing … READ MORE
STORIES FROM MONDAY, JULY 22
10 Fun Facts of the Day: The Seven Wonders of the World
by Kayla Bell
The Seven Wonders of the World have captivated imaginations for centuries. These awe-inspiring structures, both ancient and modern, stand as testaments to human ingenuity and artistry. READ MORE
Self-Care Tips for Parents & Caregivers
by Kayla Bell
Being a parent or caregiver is an incredibly rewarding yet demanding role.
It requires a constant outpouring of love, patience, and energy. READ MORE
10 Fun Facts of the Day: Historical Oddities
by Kayla Bell
History isn’t all about memorizing dates and battles.
Sometimes, the most fascinating stories lie in the unexpected quirks and oddities that have shaped the world we live in today. READ MORE
How To: Planning a Family Picnic
by Kayla Bell
Family picnics are a delightful way to break away from the routine and reconnect with loved ones in a relaxed, natural setting. Beyond the delicious food and fresh air, picnics offer an opportunity to create lasting memories through shared laughter, games, and simply enjoying each other’s company. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Sunday … I listened to a very good sermon … then it was like the world began to change right before my eyes…
Participated in a very good worship service … enjoyed a good meal with some of my favorites … Turned the TV on and the world was changing right before my eyes… READ MORE
STORIES FROM SUNDAY, JULY 21
Five Bible Verses and More Rest Assured, Israel Will Win
by Van Yandell
Genesis 12:2 and 7
“And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: (7) And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, unto thy seed will I give this land: and there built he an altar unto the LORD.” READ MORE
Five Bible Verses and More – Not Only a Religion, But Essential Knowledge
Contributed
1 Timothy 3:16 states, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God,” highlighting the foundational belief in the Bible’s divine origin. Recently, Oklahoma passed a law mandating the teaching of the Bible in classrooms, sparking debate not about establishing a state religion or promoting Christian nationalism, but about the educational benefits it offers. READ MORE
Movie Review: Twisters (2024)
A staff report
Genre: Action/Adventure, Suspense/Thriller
Release Date: Friday, July 19, 2024
Director: Steven Harper
Starring: Edgar-Jones, Powell, Ramos
Rating: ★★★★☆
As storm season sweeps across the silver screen in “Twisters”, director Steven Harper delivers a gripping tale of adrenaline-fueled action set against the tumultuous backdrop of Oklahoma’s tornado alley. With an impressive 80% fresh rating on the Tomatometer, this film promises a thrilling ride for audiences seeking heart-pounding suspense and breathtaking visual effects. READ MORE
Movie Review: The Fall Guy – Action-Packed Nostalgia with a Modern Twist
A staff report
Director: David Leitch
Writer: Drew Pearce
Cast: Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Hannah Waddingham, Teresa Palmer, Stephanie Hsu, Winston Duke, Ben Knight, Lee Majors, Heather Thomas, Jason Momoa
The Fall Guy, directed by David Leitch and written by Drew Pearce, is a 2024 American action comedy that breathes new life into the beloved 1980s TV series. With a star-studded cast led by Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt, the film offers a blend of action, comedy, and romance, making it a thrilling ride for audiences. READ MORE
Recipe of the Day: Apple Turnover
by Kayla Bell
Golden, flaky pastry encasing warm, spiced apples – apple turnovers are a delightful handheld treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a satisfying snack. This recipe offers a simple and delicious way to enjoy the comforting flavors of fall any time of year. READ MORE
Recipe of the Day: Sushi Rolls
by Kayla Bell
Sushi rolls, those delightful bundles of seaweed filled with fluffy rice and flavorful fillings, have become a global culinary phenomenon. While a trip to your favorite sushi restaurant is always tempting, there’s a certain satisfaction in creating these delectable rolls at home. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Rose early this AM, ’bout midnight, and I heard the pitter-patter of rain … Oh so brief … Total shower measured … maybe a trace … The temperature was near 78 degrees … And the rain ceased …
Yesterday was a good day for our small Hester family … my bride and I, plus 2 sons … and we all had a brief time together Saturday … Always good… READ MORE
STORIES FROM SATURDAY, JULY 20
Bladen County Benefits from a Half-Century of Commitment with Eddie White of State Farm
By Charlotte Smith
Bladen County, North Carolina, has long been a blend of tightly-knit communities and hometown values. Few have woven themselves into the “Mother County” fabric as Eddie White, State Farm Agent, has in Elizabethtown. Celebrating an astonishing fifty years in the insurance business, White’s journey from marine biology to the insurance world is a testament to his adaptive spirit and unyielding dedication. READ MORE
Recipe of the Day: Banana Bread
By Kayla Bell
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen. This timeless treat is more than just a delicious snack; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or delightful dessert companions. Today, we’ll delve into a classic banana bread recipe that’s easy to follow and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. READ MORE
Word of the Day: Zenith
By Kayla Bell
Today, we delve into a word that evokes a sense of achievement and brilliance: zenith. Zenith, pronounced “zee-nith,” is a noun with two primary definitions. In astronomy, it refers to the highest point in the sky reached by a celestial body, such as the sun at noon. Imagine the arc the sun traces across the sky throughout the day. The zenith is the very peak of that arc, the point directly overhead. READ MORE
10 Fun Facts of the Day: Accidental Inventions
By Kayla Bell
Sometimes, the most brilliant inventions come about not through meticulous planning, but through sheer happenstance. These lucky discoveries, often born from mistakes or unexpected observations, have revolutionized our lives surprisingly. Buckle up and get ready for a dose of trivia as we explore 10 fun facts about accidental inventions! READ MORE
Bladen County Headlines… 50 Years Ago
*Bladen County Hospital approved a pest control contract with McDuffie Pest Control of Elizabethtown.
*North Carolina Highway Patrolman R.B. Starling arrested three men on marijuana charges. They were placed in Bladen County Jail with bond set at $500 each.
*The average Border Belt tobacco price was $81.42 per pound. Bladen growers were expecting prices $10 higher….and expressed their disappointment in the local media.
Thoughts While Shaving
Weather continues to get top billing … Yesterday’s high temp … 89 degrees in our area … no rainfall since we last reported, early Friday…
Whiteville native Brooks Baldwin made his 1st start in the baseball big leagues Friday night … 1st at bat … a single to right field vs. the Kansas City Royals …
Stock market took a ‘dive’ over the past few days … It has had a great run, earlier… READ MORE
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Nadine Shipman’s Local Book Signing
By: Jair McElveen
Do you consider yourself a bookworm? Are you a history buff?
Well, if you answered yes to any of those questions, this event is for you. READ MORE
Community Event: Walk for Life Hosted by The Mercy House
A staff report
Bladenboro, NC – The Mercy House is excited to announce the upcoming “Walk for Life” event, set to take place on September 7, 2024. This family-friendly event will be held at the Bladenboro Historical Building, located at 818 S Main St, Bladenboro, NC. READ MORE
Corrected: Camp Clearwater Presents Free Family Concert Featuring 2nd Chance Ministries
A staff report
White Lake, NC – Camp Clearwater and Clearwater Chapel are excited to announce a special live music event featuring Nashville recording artists, 2nd Chance Ministries. The concert, titled “I Believe in the Resurrection,” will take place on July 27th at 8:00 PM on the Camp Clearwater Main Stage. READ MORE
Community Alert: Hickory Grove Baptist Church Hosts Vital Blood Drive
A staff report
Bladenboro, NC – The American Red Cross is calling on community members to contribute to a crucial blood drive at Hickory Grove Baptist Church, located at 6414 Center Road, Bladenboro, NC 28320. This life-saving event is scheduled for Tuesday, August 6, 2024, from noon to 5:00 PM. READ MORE
16th Annual Tri-County Awards & Recognition Banquet to Celebrate Achievements in Riegelwood
Contributed
The Men and Women United for Youth & Families organization is set to host its 16th Annual Tri-County Awards and Recognition Banquet on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at 4:00 PM. The event will take place at the Berline P. Graham Multipurpose Building located at East Arcadia Elementary School, 21451 NC-87, Riegelwood, NC 28456. READ MORE
26th Annual “Made in the Shade” Open Car and Truck Show
A staff report
The Classic Cruisers Car Club of Elizabethtown, NC, is gearing up for its 26th Annual “Made in the Shade” Open Car and Truck Show. This annual event will take place on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at the San Jose Restaurant located across from Walmart at 1320 W. Broad Street, Elizabethtown, NC. READ MORE
Project Uplift Excellence Gala Honors Community Members
By: Jair McElveen
On July 27, 2024, the Whimsical Florist Ballroom will host the inaugural Project Uplift Excellence Black Tie Scholarship Gala, an event devoted to highlighting community leaders who do not get the acknowledgment they deserve. Leading this event Jerome Purdie, founder of the state-recognized and non-profit organization Project Uplift, prepares for a memorable night that will be full of recognition, community spirit, and charitable support. READ MORE
White Lake Fall Swim Challenge Set for September 7, 2024
A staff report
White Lake, NC – The highly anticipated White Lake Fall Swim Challenge is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 7, 2024. This exciting event offers participants a choice of three swim distances, catering to various skill levels and preferences. READ MORE
Bladen Community College Hosts Back to School Blast for K-12 Students
A staff report
Bladen Community College is excited to announce its upcoming Back to School Blast, an event designed for all K-12 students to kick off the new school year with enthusiasm and fun. Scheduled for Saturday, August 10th, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, this event promises a morning filled with activities and resources to help students prepare for their return to the classroom. READ MORE