03/19/2024
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Protecting Your Pet: Essential Tips for National Poison Prevention Week

A staff reportAs the National Safety Council marks its 47th year of National Poison Prevention Week, Bladen Animal Hospital joins the initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of poisoning in pets. While many are aware of potential hazards to humans, it’s crucial to recognize that our furry companions face unique risks from everyday household items. READ MORE



Thoughts While Shaving

Robert Hester, Founder of BladenOnline.com

The NCAA College Basketball Playoffs begin Tuesday, March 19 … and will continue thru April 8, 2024. Duke, UNC and NC State selected for men’s play.

The national presidential race is turning into a zoo … Wish it were not so. One winner and one or more losers… READ MORE



3 Things To Know For Monday

three things to know

1. Blood Drive: Today, Noon-3 p.m., Bladen County Hospital, 501 South Poplar Street, Elizabethtown.

2. Tax Return Assistance: Wednesday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Bladen County Public Library, 111 N. Cypress Street, Elizabethtown.

3. Understanding Meat Cuts: Thursday, 5:30-7 p.m., Powell-Melvin Agricultural Center, 450 Smith Circle, Elizabethtown. READ MORE 

• BLADEN ONLINE’S COMMUNITY CALENDAR



This Day in History For March 18

this day in history

1881 – Barnum & Bailey Circus, traveling as “The Greatest Show on Earth”, debuts at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

1922 – WBT-AM in Charlotte, NC begins radio transmissions.

1965 – Poppin’ Fresh Pillsbury DoughBoy introduced. READ MORE



STORIES FROM SUNDAY, MARCH 17


Embracing the Irish Spirit on St. Patrick’s Day with Five Bible Verses

A staff reportToday is St. Patrick’s Day, and it offers a moment of reflection on the rich tapestry of Irish history, resilience, and faith. The Irish spirit, celebrated worldwide on this day, is deeply rooted in themes of strength, perseverance, faith, and blessings. These elements reflect the Irish people’s enduring character and resonate with the universal human experience of overcoming adversity through faith and community. READ MORE



St. Patrick’s Day Pet Safety Tips from Bladen Animal Hospital

A staff reportAs the festive spirit of St. Patrick’s Day envelops the community, Bladen Animal Hospital reminds all pet owners about the importance of keeping their furry friends safe during the celebrations. While it’s a time for joy and festivity, it’s also a crucial moment to be mindful of the potential dangers that holiday foods and activities can pose to our pets. READ MORE



Arthur the King Movie Review: A Heartwarming True Tale for Animal Enthusiasts

A staff reportIn the film “Arthur the King,” directed by Simon Cellan Jones and distributed by Lionsgate Films, audiences are treated to a touching true story that’s a must-watch for dog lovers everywhere. The cast features Mark Wahlberg as Michael Light, alongside stars Simu Liu, Nathalie Emmanuel, and Ali Suliman, delivering a narrative that showcases the unbreakable bond between humans and their canine companions. READ MORE



Upcoming Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Announced for March 18, 2024

A staff report

Maria C. Edwards, NCCCC, serving as the Assistant to the County Manager and Clerk to the Board of Commissioners, has officially released the agenda for the forthcoming Board of Commissioners’ meeting set to take place on March 18, 2024. The session is scheduled to commence at 6:30 pm in the Commissioners’ Room, situated on the lower level of the Bladen County Courthouse at 106 East Broad Street, Elizabethtown. READ MORE



Thoughts While Shaving

Robert Hester, Founder of BladenOnline.com

NC State Wolfpack topped off a great week with a victory over longtime rival UNC. Five wins in five nights guarantees the ‘Pack a slot in the NCAA tournament. Final score … NC State 84, UNC 76.

The win could be worth more than $5.5 million for Coach Kevin Keatts … According to his contract, there is an automatic 2-year extension as head coach, an automatic $400,000 pay increase that will begin next season, plus other perks … READ MORE



STORIES FROM SATURDAY, MARCH 16


HCA Terrific Kids

Contributed.

Twelve deserving HCA Lower School students were named Terrific Kids for the third nine week grading period. These students were selected for being respectful, responsible, and caring. The Terrific Kid program is sponsored by the Clinton Kiwanis Club. READ MORE 



Empowering Lives and Building Communities: RHA Health Services’ Commitment to Excellence

A Staff Report

In the heart of North Carolina, RHA Health Services is making a profound impact on the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health needs, and substance use challenges. Their mission is simple yet profound: to help these individuals live their best lives. Through unwavering dedication, a commitment to personalized care, and strong values, RHA Health Services is setting the pace for excellence in supporting people. READ MORE



Bladen County Headlines… 50 Years Ago

*Representative Jimmy Green of Clarkton was honored by the North Carolina General Assembly in Raleigh at a “Salute To Jimmy Green Dinner.”

*The 1974 Blueberry Festival at White Lake was cancelled due to the energy crisis.

*Luther Clark, an insurance executive in Clarkton, and Chairman of the Bladen County Board of Education, passed away at the age of 61.



Thoughts While Shaving

Robert Hester, Founder of BladenOnline.com

UNC vs NC State for ACC Tournament Championship … Yesterday’s results … UNC 72 – Pittsburgh 65 … NC State 73 – Virginia 65 in overtime …

Yesterday’s high temp in Bladen … 82 degrees … Today’s (Saturday) forecast … Patchy fog early, otherwise partly sunny with a high near 72 … READ MORE



STORIES FROM FRIDAY, MARCH 15


Three North Carolina Students Among 2024 National Aviation Art Contest Winners

Jasmine Lee of Antioch Elementary School won first place in the junior category of this year’s National Aviation Art Contest.

Contributed

RALEIGH – The aviation artwork of three North Carolina students is being recognized at a national level. READ MORE 



This Week at NCDOT: NCDMV Kiosks, Small Business Workshops, Move Over Law

Contributed

RALEIGH – The following are highlights from this week at the N.C. Department of Transportation. The stories below are also featured in NCDOT Now, the department’s weekly newscast. READ MORE



Shining the Spotlight: High School Seniors Share Their Journeys and Aspirations

A staff report

As the academic year draws to a close, high school seniors find themselves at a crossroads situated on the brink of a new chapter in their lives. BladenOnline.com is excited to embark on a journey of exploration and celebration by spotlighting these remarkable individuals’ achievements, aspirations, and journeys. READ MORE



Luck of the Irish: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with These Delicious Recipes

A staff reportAs St. Patrick’s Day approaches March 17th, it’s time to don your green attire and embrace the spirit of the Emerald Isle! Whether you’re Irish by heritage or simply Irish at heart, there’s no better way to celebrate this festive occasion than with a feast of traditional Irish dishes. READ MORE



Local Church to Celebrate Women in History

Contributed

On Sunday, March 17, 2024, we’re celebrating Women History at da Branch.  This is an invitation for women, young ladies, girls in the communities to come and worship with us in celebration of Women’s History Month. READ MORE



Embark on Your Aviation Journey: Pilot Interest Meeting Scheduled at Elizabethtown Airport

Contributed

Attention all aspiring pilots! Chandler Savage, from the Elizabethtown Airport (Curtis L. Brown, Jr. Field), cordially invites you to a Pilot Interest Meeting. If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring through the skies, this is your chance to learn about obtaining your pilot’s license. READ MORE



Thoughts While Shaving

Robert Hester, Founder of BladenOnline.com

Headline … At least 3 dead after suspected tornadoes steam through Midwest … Indiana, Ohio & Kentucky all reported twisters…

Bladen County Commissioners have scheduled a budget workshop for Monday … Minus longtime County Manager Greg Martin who announced his retirement in December. His last day of work was January 31st … READ MORE



STORIES FROM THURSDAY, MARCH 14


Bladen County Board of County Commissioner to Hold Special Meeting

Contributed

The Bladen County Board of Commissioners will hold a Special Meeting at 5:00pm on Monday, March 18, 2024. The purpose of this Special Meeting is to discuss the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget. READ MORE



Turnbull Creek Educational State Forest will Celebrate North Carolina Arbor Day

Contributed

In honor of North Carolina Arbor Day, which will be observed Friday, March 22nd, we at Turnbull Creek Educational State Forest will celebrate with forest visitors during a special Arbor Day History program and tree-planting demonstration Saturday, March 23rd from 2-3 p.m. Participants will have the opportunity to take home a free tree seedling for planting. READ MORE



Spotlight on NCHP Senior Trooper Auldon Reeves

A staff report

In Bladen County, where the North Carolina Highway Patrol’s duty to serve and protect reverberates through the community stands, Senior Trooper Auldon Reeves. Trooper Reeves is a dedicated servant to the people and a pillar within the North Carolina Highway Patrol. READ MORE



North Carolina’s January County and Area Employment Figures Released

Contributed

RALEIGH — Unemployment rates (not seasonally adjusted) increased in all 100 of North Carolina’s counties in January 2024. Hyde County had the highest unemployment rate at 8.8 percent while Greene County had the lowest at 2.7 percent. READ MORE



Thoughts While Shaving

Robert Hester, Founder of BladenOnline.com

For ACC basketball fans, this is a great week … ACC tournament being held this year in Washington, D.C. at Capital One Arena …

Tough days for Boeing airlines, maybe others … Airlines under the microscope, as they should be … Last place for a miscue, shoddy work.

Yesterday’s weather left little to complain about … OK, some wind. READ MORE


STORIES FROM WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13


Bladenboro Middle School Student Secures 2nd Place at Regional Science Fair

A staff reportBladen County Schools is proud to announce the remarkable achievement of Jeremiah Bryan, a seventh-grade student at Bladenboro Middle School, who clinched the 2nd place spot at the Regional Science Fair. The event, hosted at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke on February 17, showcased Jeremiah’s outstanding project about “Power Plants. READ MORE


Bladen County Sheriff’s K9 Visits Elizabethtown Primary for Hands-On Learning Experience

A staff reportIn an exciting and educational day for the PreK class at Elizabethtown Primary School, students had the unique opportunity to meet K9 Arco, a dedicated member of the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, along with his handler Cpl. Moore. This visit provided a hands-on learning experience about the roles and responsibilities of K9 units in law enforcement and their invaluable contribution to community safety. READ MORE


Insights from the Bladen County Schools Board of Education Meeting Held on February 12, 2024

A staff reportThe Bladen County Board of Education convened for its regular meeting on Monday, February 12, 2024, with key members and administrative staff in attendance. In this article are the highlights from the meeting as provided by the minutes submitted by Crystal Johnson, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent and Board. READ MORE


Trooper Kevin Conner Memorial Foundation Announces $10,000 Scholarship for Bladen County and Columbus County Students – Apply Now!

A staff reportIn honor of the legacy of Trooper Kevin Conner, whose service and sacrifice continue to inspire communities, the Trooper Kevin Conner Memorial Foundation, Inc. has proudly announced a $10,000 scholarship opportunity for deserving students from Bladen County and Columbus County. With the deadline drawing near, eligible students are encouraged to apply online for this prestigious award. READ MORE


North Carolina Celebrates the Contributions of Small-Scale Farmers with Small Farms Week, March 24-30

Contributed

Small farms play a vital role in supporting the competitiveness and sustainability of United States rural and farm economies and in protecting and enhancing its natural resource base and the environment. These numerous and diverse small-scale operations provide a nursery for the development of new enterprises and marketing systems, and a replenishment of the farming population. READ MORE


Bladenboro Board of Commissioners Announces Special Called Meeting

A staff reportThe Town of Bladenboro has issued a Notice of Special Called Meeting for the Bladenboro Board of Commissioners. The meeting is scheduled to take place on Monday, March 18, 2024, and Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at 6:00 pm in the Town Hall. READ MORE


Cape Fear Valley Health pharmacies resume insurance billing

Contributed

FAYETTEVILLE, NC – March 12, 2024 – Cape Fear Valley Health is pleased to announce that it has resumed filing insurance claims for prescriptions. The health system’s ability to file insurance claims for prescriptions was halted last month after the national cybersecurity attack on Change Healthcare. READ MORE 


Thoughts While Shaving

Robert Hester, Founder of BladenOnline.com

Checking the weather, yesterday’s high temp was 73, which occurred late in the day … Sunny today with a high near 77. Tonight, clear with a low around 47.

Headline … Biden and Trump clinch 2024 nomination. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. still seeking support as an outsider. He reportedly is continuing to talk to NFL QB Aaron Rodgers about a potential run for VP. READ MORE


STORIES FROM TUESDAY, MARCH 12


Dublin Peanut Festival Celebrates Successful Fish Fry Fundraiser at Lu Mil Vineyard

A staff report

Photos by Noelia Hatchell

This weekend, the Dublin Peanut Festival Committee hosted its eagerly anticipated annual Fish Fry Fundraiser at the scenic Lu Mil Vineyard, marking another successful chapter in the festival’s storied history. The event, beloved by the community, showcased the spirit of unity and support that defines Dublin. READ MORE


NCDOT Mobi Awards Contest Deadline Extended, New Date Set for Awards Ceremony

The ceremony will be held in October instead of May.

Contributed

RALEIGH – Communities now have more time to enter a contest for the state’s best multimodal transportation projects.

The deadline to enter the 2024 N.C. Department of Transportation Mobi Awards has been extended to June 28. It had originally been set at March 1. READ MORE


North Carolina’s January Employment Figures Released

Contributed

RALEIGH — The state’s seasonally adjusted January 2024 unemployment rate was 3.5 percent decreasing 0.1 of a percentage point from December’s revised rate. The national rate remained unchanged at 3.7 percent. READ MORE


Trillium Health Resources Partners with NCDHHS to Provide Free App to Support Individuals in Recovery

Contributed

The CHESS Health eRecovery solution offers daily check-ins, tracking, and support.

GREENVILLE, N.C. – Trillium Health Resources announces a new recovery-focused solution available to providers and their patients. READ MORE 


Thoughts While Shaving

Robert Hester, Founder of BladenOnline.com

NC state high school girls basketball championship … semifinals … East Columbus 76, East Bladen 66 … Great showing for the Lady Eagles … It has been a GREAT SEASON … Disappointment … sure, but still playing while others had completed their season earlier, packed up their uniforms, and moved on …

Officially, spring arrives March 19, but what a wonderful time of the year … Spring sports are underway … high schools and lower grades … READ MORE


IN CASE YOU MISSED IT


Discover Nature’s Wonders: March Programs at Jones Lake State Park

A staff reportThis March, Jones Lake State Park invites nature enthusiasts, families, and the curious to dive into the wonders of the natural world through a series of engaging and educational programs. Each event is meticulously designed to offer insight into the rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems that thrive within the park. READ MORE


Exciting Events Ahead: Camp Clearwater Springs into Action

A staff report

 Camp Clearwater announced upcoming events. The tourist destination is gearing up for its 16th Annual Spring Fest and Easter Weekend extravaganza, promising a delightful array of activities for all ages. READ MORE


Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery to Host First Southeastern Carolina Crossroads Annual Gala

A staff report

Elizabethtown, NC – Southeastern Carolina Crossroads (SCC), a ministry dedicated to helping men struggling with substance abuse, will host its first annual gala on April 18, 2024, at 6 pm. The event will be held at the Gallery Ballroom of Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery. The event will feature a plated dinner, musical talents from the band, Redeemed of Sunset Beach, NC, a silent auction, a moving art memorial exhibit, and testimonies from the residents at SCC. READ MORE


Honoring Vietnam War Veterans: Nominate a Hero Today

A staff report

The Bladen County Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post is working in conjunction with Bladen Community College (BCC) to host a Vietnam War Era Veteran Commemoration Ceremony on Good Friday (March 29, 2024, from 10:00am until 11:30 am) in the Main Auditorium at BCC. READ MORE


Bladen County Relay for Life Cancer Survivor Annual Gala Dinner Set for March 23rd, 2024

Elizabethtown, NC – The Bladen County Relay for Life Cancer Survivor Annual Gala Dinner is poised to be a night of celebration, remembrance, and solidarity as it returns on March 23rd, 2024.

Hosted at 800 W Broad Street in Elizabethtown, NC, this eagerly anticipated event promises to be a memorable evening for all attendees. READ MORE


Boost the Boro, Inc. Announces Spring Fling Event Featuring Gary Lowder & Smokin’ Hot

A Staff reportBoost the Boro, Inc., a beloved local nonprofit, is gearing up to host its annual Spring Fling event, set to take place on April 6th, 2024, from 5PM to 10PM in downtown Bladenboro. This eagerly anticipated community gathering promises an evening filled with entertainment, food, and fun for the entire family. READ MORE


2024 White Lake Water Festival: Exciting Schedule Announced

A staff report

The anticipation is building as the 2024 White Lake Water Festival gears up to deliver a weekend packed with fun and entertainment for the whole family. Thanks to the hard work of the Water Festival Committee, along with the support of new volunteers and sponsors, this year’s event promises to be one of the best in recent memory. READ MORE


Honoring Our Heroes: 2024 Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Peace Officer Memorial Service

A staff reportThe Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, under the leadership of Sheriff McVicker and his dedicated staff, extends a warm and heartfelt invitation to you and your family for this year’s Peace Officer Memorial Service. This solemn and meaningful ceremony is scheduled to take place on May 17, 2024, starting at 8:00 a.m. READ MORE


BladenOnline.com Offers Complimentary Video Publication Opportunity for Election Candidates

A staff report

Are you vying for a public office in this year’s election? BladenOnline.com is extending a unique opportunity to all candidates: the chance to have your campaign message reach a wider audience through our digital platforms. We invite you to submit your campaign videos for publication on BladenOnline’s YouTube Channel.  READ MORE