Breast Cancer Awareness Month – Early Detection Saves Lives
Contributed
No matter who you are or where you live, breast cancer may touch your life. Know the warning signs of breast cancer, your risk and what’s normal for you so you can take action if there are any changes in your breasts or underarm areas. Catch us each Monday for a new fact or tip! READ MORE
NCDPI Announces The State Budget is now Law
Contributed
The State Budget is now Law. HB 259 is now Session Law 2023-134. We have posted our updated Budget Summary documents and Funding Comparison workbook to the website, under What’s New. We have also posted the updated Salary Schedules for your reference. READ MORE
Sesame Farming Emerges as a Promising Crop in Bladen and Other North Carolina Counties
Photo courtesy of NC Cooperative Extension
A Staff Report
In a surprising turn of events for North Carolina’s agriculture scene, the state is seeing the emergence of sesame fields across rural landscapes, standing tall among traditional crops like tobacco, corn, cotton, and soybeans. Brandon Herring, Public Information Officer for NCDA&CS Public Affairs, has raised a thought-provoking question: “Would you ever imagine that sesame, which goes into tahini and hummus, etc., could be on the way to being a standard crop in North Carolina?” READ MORE
Sayaun Dent Memorial Foundation Attains 501c3 Nonprofit Status
A Staff Report
Elizabethtown, NC – In a momentous stride towards remembering a treasured community member, the Sayaun Dent Memorial Foundation proudly announces its newly acquired 501c3 nonprofit status. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has officially recognized the foundation as a charitable organization, a testament to its dedication to serving the community. READ MORE
Annual Bluegrass on the Blackwater Concert: Darren Nicholson Band 7pm Thursday October 19
The Carolina Civic Center Historic Theater in downtown Lumberton, NC, continues its annual Bluegrass on the Blackwater concert series with the Darren Nicholson Band on Thursday, October 19, 2023.
A GRAMMY nominee and winner of 13 International Bluegrass Music Association awards, Darren Nicholson has taken his own brand of mountain music around the world. READ MORE
You’re Invited to the WHITE ELEPHANT SALE
WHITE ELEPHANT SALE at Wesley’s Chapel Church on FRIDAY & SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17 & 18 from 9am to 5pm.
Great deals on furniture, antiques, household goods, art, toys, sports equipment and more! Come by to find your treasure or have a hotdog and some goodies!
3 Things To Know For Wednesday
Here are three things to know for Wednesday, October 4:
1. Chicken Bog Plate Sale: Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Clarkton First Baptist Church, 10233 N. College Street. Donations only. Proceeds to help repair roof of Fellowship Hall. Will deliver pre-ordered plates to businesses within a 25-mile radius. To pre-order, call Randy Coates at 910-876-4144 for pre-orders. READ MORE
• BLADEN ONLINE’S COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Thoughts While Shaving for October 4
Checking the weather on this Wednesday, October 4th, 2023. Sunny, today, with a high near 82… low tonight around 61… Thursday is mostly sunny, with a high near 83, but change is on the way…
Looking ahead… Sunny Sunday, with a high near 68. Low Sunday night around 45… Bring out the long sleeves, coats, and jackets… READ MORE
STORIES FROM TUESDAY, OCT. 3
Open Announcement – Important Event for Bladen County Veterans: Learn About The PACT Act
Contributed
Dear Bladen County Veterans and Families,
We are excited to bring to your attention an essential event that can significantly impact veterans and their families in Bladen County. Please mark your calendars for this crucial gathering. READ MORE
Bladen County Board of Commissioners Meetings Recapped
A Staff Report
On Monday, September 18, 2023, the Bladen County Board of Commissioners held their regular meeting in the Commissioners’ Room at the Bladen County Courthouse in Elizabethtown, North Carolina. The meeting, which began at 6:30 PM, addressed a range of important topics, including funding requests, water service expansion, grant opportunities, and updates from various county departments. This article provides a comprehensive recap of the key highlights and decisions made during this meeting. READ MORE
Celebrating the Unsung Heroes: Happy National Custodian’s Day!
A Staff Report
Every day, as we walk through the doors of our schools, offices, and various other public spaces, we often take for granted the clean, orderly environments we encounter. But behind the scenes, there are individuals who work tirelessly to ensure our surroundings are safe, clean, and comfortable. National Custodian’s Day, celebrated on October 2nd, provides us with an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the unsung heroes who make our lives better by maintaining the places we live, learn, and work. READ MORE
Butters Baptist Church Homecoming
Contributed
Butters Baptist Church will be having Homecoming on Sunday, October 8th. Sunday School begins at 9:00 and Worship Service at 10:00. Following church services, there will be a catered meal with homemade desserts. Everyone is invited to Worship, have Sunday Dinner, and Fellowship with Butters Baptist Church!
Hopkins Starts Role as NC Transportation Secretary New Chief Operating Officer, Chief Engineer Also Named
RALEIGH – A new transportation secretary and others in key leadership positions at the N.C. Department of Transportation officially began in their elevated roles this week.
Joseph R. “Joey” Hopkins, the former chief operating officer at NCDOT, is now the transportation secretary. Former transportation secretary Eric Boyette retired in September after serving in state government for more than 27 years. READ MORE.
Thoughts While Shaving
Monday Night Football … Seattle Seahawks 24 – NY Giants 13
Yesterday’s high temp was 83 degrees.
Cooler weather on the way … It is October…
US Stock market moving from side to side, rather than up & up. READ MORE
3 Things To Know For Tuesday
1. Blood Drive: Today, Noon-5 p.m., Hickory Grove Baptist Church Family Life Center, Bladenboro.
2. Story Time: Thursday, 10 a.m., Bladen County Public Library, Elizabethtown..
3. Trooper Kevin Conner 5k and 1-mile run:Oct. 14, 8:30 a.m., Whiteville. READ MORE
• BLADEN ONLINE’S COMMUNITY CALENDAR
This Day in History For October 3
1899 – J.S. Truman patents motor-driven vacuum cleaners.
1922 – 1st facsimile photo sent over city telephone lines, Washington, D.C.
1945 – Elvis Presley’s 1st public performance, at age of 10, singing “Old Shep” in youth talent contest Mississippi-Alabama Fair and Dairy Show in Tupelo, Mississippi. READ MORE
STORIES FROM MONDAY, OCT. 2
Annual Membership Meeting for Bladen County Farm Bureau Announced
Contributed
The Bladen County Farm Bureau invites you to join us for our highly anticipated Annual Membership Meeting, set to take place on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at the Powell-Melvin Agriculture Service Center in Elizabethtown, North Carolina. This event promises an evening of camaraderie, fun, and important discussions about our agricultural community. READ MORE
Moores Creek National Battlefield to Host Scottish Heritage Day
Contributed
Currie, NC– On Saturday, October 14, 2023, from 10 am until 3 pm, living historians will fill Patriot’s Field, sharing the many stories of the Highland Scots and the important role that they played at the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge. This year’s events will focus on the connections between the acclaimed book series Outlander and the actual events that took place on February 27, 1776. This will be done through guided tours of the battlefield at 10 am, noon, and 2 pm led by park staff, as well as other hands-on demonstrations. READ MORE
Reminder – Regular Scheduled Board Meeting for Emereau Bladen Charter School
Contributed
The Emereau Bladen Board of Directors will meet in regular session on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at Emereau: Bladen Charter School, 995 Airport Road, Elizabethtown, NC 28337. READ MORE.
Road Closures in Bladen County Announced by NCDOT
A Staff Report
Bladen County, North Carolina – The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has recently announced several road closures in Bladen County, affecting local commuters and travelers. These closures are necessary to facilitate essential maintenance and improvement projects in the area. Here is a breakdown of the road closures and the reasons behind them: READ MORE.
A Tribute to the Odyssey of Coach Ken F. Cross
By Charlotte Smith
Bladen County, NC – On October 1, 2023, a special occasion unfolded at the Knight’s Castle. The first day of the month marked the dedication of the West Bladen High School (WBHS) gymnasium in honor of the esteemed Coach Ken F. Cross. READ MORE.
Elizabethtown ‘Pink Out with the Pink Slips’: A Night of Breast Cancer Awareness and Community Support
A Staff Report
Elizabethtown, North Carolina – A vibrant and meaningful event is set to take center stage at the Cape Fear Farmer’s Market in Elizabethtown on Friday, October 6th, from 7 to 10 p.m. As the community gathers, they will be adorned in shades of pink for the “Pink Out with the Pink Slips” event, dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness Month. READ MORE.
Thoughts While Shaving
Reminder … Bladen County Commissioners meet today at 6:30 p.m. in the courthouse … Open to the public.
Yesterday’s high temp was 80 degrees, recorded at the local National Weather Station at the Curtis Brown airport… READ MORE
Bladen County August Unemployment Rate at 4.1%
RALEIGH — Unemployment rates (not seasonally adjusted) increased in 41 of North Carolina’s counties in August, decreased in 28, and remained unchanged in 31, according to figures released Friday by the N.C. Department of Commerce.
Southeastern North Carolina county rates: Bladen 4.1, Columbus 3.6, Brunswick 4.1. READ MORE
STORIES FROM SUNDAY, OCT. 1
Facts About Forest Trees in North Carolina
Who doesn’t love to learn a little something about common forest trees in North Carolina?
Black walnut, an extremely valuable forest tree, only grows well on rich bottomlands in moist, fertile coves and on lower slopes throughout the state. Its survival, growth and quality on less fertile sites is not good. READ MORE.
Thoughts While Shaving
College Football Results from Saturday’s action…
Notre Dame 21 – Duke 14
Rice 24 – ECU 17
App State 41 – UL Monroe 40
West Bladen High School gymnasium will be dedicated to Coach Ken Cross today (Oct. 1) 3 p.m. All are invited … READ MORE
Strides Walk Raises Money For Juvenile Diabetes Research
Contributed
Conditions were ideal Saturday morning for a leisurely walk through a quiet Clarkton neighborhood.
About 30 people gathered to do just that. In the process, they helped raised $488 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. READ MORE
STORIES FROM SATURDAY, SEPT. 30
How to Make Delicious Apple Jelly: A Step-by-Step Guide
Recipe by Terri Stanley
If you’ve ever wanted to capture the essence of fresh apples in a delightful spread, making your own apple jelly is the perfect culinary adventure. Here’s a simple and satisfying recipe to guide you through the process: READ MORE
Bladen County Headlines…50 Years Ago
*A Lumberton man was electrocuted in Bladenboro while working on an a/c unit at Bladen Mills.
Elizabethtown Reveals Agenda for October 2, 2023: Town Material Now Available Online
In a recent announcement, the Town of Elizabethtown disclosed that the agenda materials for the upcoming October 2, 2023, have been officially posted on the Town’s website, www.elizabethtownnc.org.
The citizens and stakeholders have access to information ahead of scheduled meetings. READ MORE
Bladen County Releases Agenda for October 2, Board of Commissioners Meeting
A Staff Report
Elizabethtown, NC – The County of Bladen has unveiled the agenda for the upcoming Board of Commissioners meeting, scheduled to take place on October 2, 2023. Maria C. Edwards, NCCCC, Assistant to the County Manager/Clerk to the Board, announced the details of the meeting, which will commence at 6:30pm in the Commissioners’ Room at the Bladen County Courthouse. READ MORE
Updated – North Carolina Passes Senate Bill 189 to Strengthen Laws on Death by Distribution
A Staff Report
Raleigh, North Carolina- In a significant move aimed at combatting the alarming rise in drug-related fatalities, North Carolina’s General Assembly has passed Senate Bill 189, which NC Governor Roy Copper has now signed into law. The legislation, driven by a collaboration between lawmakers and law enforcement agencies, revises existing statutes pertaining to “Death by Distribution” of controlled substances. According to the Bladen County Sheriff’s Department, this crucial step in the fight against drug-related deaths has garnered strong support from the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association, highlighting its high-priority status. READ MORE
Correction – Announcing the Distinguished 2023 Harrells Christian Academy Homecoming Court
Contributed
Harrells, NC – It’s that time of year again when the Harrells Christian Academy (HCA) community comes together to celebrate its tradition of Homecoming. With much excitement and anticipation, the HCA Upper School recently made a significant announcement: the selection of the 2023 Homecoming Court. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Area high school football scores from action last night…
East Bladen 65 – Pender 36
Clinton 71 – West Bladen 13
Today is the last day of September … Hopefully, strikes are soon settled, US Congress approves a new budget (not likely) and the stock market improves, as we move into October … Begins tomorrow. READ MORE
STORIES FROM FRIDAY, SEPT. 29
Wake County Schools Welcomes New Superintendent Robert Taylor
A Staff Report
Wake County, North Carolina- Wake County Schools, the state’s largest school district, will swear in Dr. Robert Taylor as its new superintendent today, marking a significant moment in the district’s education leadership. Dr. Taylor, a seasoned educator with a wealth of experience, takes the helm of the Wake County Public School System, stepping into the role vacated by former Superintendent Catty Moore, who retired on June 30. READ MORE
State Powell Bill Funds to Help Municipalities Improve Transportation
NCDOT will distribute $154 million in Powell Bill funds RALEIGH – The N.C. Department of Transportation is distributing more than $154.9 million in state street aid, or Powell Bill funds, to help 508 municipalities resurface streets and make other transportation improvements. The Powell Bill funds, which the NCDOT distributes twice each fiscal year, are also used to maintain, repair, build or widen streets, bridges and drainage areas, as well as plan, build and maintain bicycle paths, greenways or sidewalks. READ MORE
NCDHHS, ECU and NC State Receive Funding for Agriculture Workers Digital Equity Initiative
PRESS RELEASE RALEIGH, NC— The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Rural Health, in partnership with East Carolina University and North Carolina State University, has been awarded a highly competitive Community Partnerships to Advance Science for Society award from the National Institutes of Health for the proposed Agricultural Workers Digital Equity Initiative. The five-year, nearly $6 million award strives to advance health equity by promoting digital inclusion for agricultural workers and their families in North Carolina. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Play is underway in Rome, Italy, 1st day Ryder Cup action …
Weekend just hours away … big plans? College football is high on the agenda for Saturday … NFL plays Sunday…
No problem with the weather … for next week or more … READ MORE
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Friends of the Bay Lakes’ Welcomes All to a Fun Fall Festival
A Staff Report
Get ready for an exciting autumn experience as the Friends of the Bay Lakes invite you to join the fun at the upcoming Fall Festival. Admission is just $5 per person, granting you full access to a wide array of games and activities. Please note that cash payments only will be accepted, and please bring smaller bills. READ MORE
Trunks and Treats Car Show: A Spooky Spectacle by Cars and Coffee of Elizabethtown
A Staff Report
Elizabethtown, NC – Mark your calendars, car enthusiasts and families alike! Cars and Coffee of Elizabethtown is back with a thrilling event combining automobiles’ excitement with the joy of Halloween. Prepare for a spooktacular experience as we present the “Trunks and Treats Car Show” on October 21, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon. READ MORE
Lu Mil Vineyard Presents the Ultimate Family Fun Day at the North Carolina Grape Festival
A Staff Report
Get ready for an unforgettable day of family-friendly entertainment as Lu Mil Vineyard hosts the North Carolina Grape Festival on Saturday, October 14, 2023, from 10 am until 3 pm. And the best part? Admission is entirely free!
This exciting event promises a little something for everyone, making it the perfect outing for families and friends looking to enjoy a delightful day in the picturesque setting of Lu Mil Vineyard. READ MORE.
Jones Lake State Park October Programs
Jones Lake State Park has released its October program itinerary. Learn about bears, the mysteries of the Carolina Bays, how to use a compass and snakes.
The park is located at 4117 NC 242 North, Elizabethtown. Events are free and open to the public. For information about the programs, call 910-588-4550. READ MORE
RecoveryBladen.org Goes Live!
Contributed
Bladen County Health and Human Services is proud to announce the launch of RecoveryBladen.org. The new website is devoted to helping our community to prevent, treat, and reduce harm from substance use.
RecoveryBladen.org provides a connection to services and resources for the people of Bladen County. The website shares information to help people affected by substance use improve their health and quality of life. According to Dr. Terri Duncan READ MORE
Bladen County Law Enforcement Officers Association Conceal Carry Class
The Bladen County Law Enforcement Officers Association has scheduled a conceal carry class on Saturday, Oct. 7 at the Bladen County Emergency Services Training Center, 5853 US 701 North, Elizabethtown.
Cost of class is $75 with a $25 nonrefundable deposit due by 5 p.m Friday, Sept. 29. READ MORE
Roger’s Wish: A Decade of Warmth and Generosity Begins Anew
A Staff Report
White Oak, NC – The Tenth Annual Roger’s Wish Project, a heartwarming initiative organized by Jeffrey Bryan, is about to kick off in style. Set to run from September 27 to October 27 at the Bladen County Public Library in Elizabethtown, this beloved event aims to bring warmth to those in need. On November 3, during regular library hours, the project will culminate in the distribution of new or gently used blankets, sleeping bags, and winter wear items, including hoodies, gloves, winter hats, and socks. READ MORE
Volunteers Needed For Bladenboro Historical Society Museum
Volunteers are needed for the Bladenboro Historical Society Museum to accompany visitors through the rooms, answer questions, and help maintain and improve exhibits. A knowledge of local history and the exhibits are desired but can be learned.
Those interested can show up during open hours or contact Henry Singletary at 910-648-4464 or email henrys@intrstar.net. READ MORE