Updated: Bladen County Education Foundation Hosts 2nd Annual Spelling Bee with a Twist
Staff Report
In an exciting twist on the traditional spelling bee format, the Bladen County Education Foundation is gearing up for its 2nd Annual Spelling Bee where students will turn the tables to judge members of the Foundation. This unique event is set to take place at Bladen Community College on Tuesday, April 23rd, starting at 6 p.m.
Representatives from 13 local public schools will participate, but they won’t be the ones spelling. Instead, these adults will step up to the microphone to test their spelling skills while students serve as judges. READ MORE
Bladen County Board of County Commissioners Announce Special Meeting Notice
Contributed
The Bladen County Board of Commissioners will hold a Special Meeting at 5:00pm on Thursday, May 2, 2024. The purpose of this Special Meeting is to discuss the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget. READ MORE
Elizabethtown Veterinary Hospital Marks Animal Cruelty and Human Violence Awareness Week
Staff report
Elizabethtown Veterinary Hospital reminds Bladen County residents the third week of April is Animal Cruelty and Human Violence Awareness Week. This annual observance aims to highlight the established link between animal abuse and violence against humans, emphasizing the urgent need for community awareness and intervention. READ MORE
Boosting Tourism in Elizabethtown and Bladen County
Contributed
Town Manager’s Update – April 2024
In a recent Town Council meeting, Terri Dennison, Director of Communications and Marketing, shared insights into the tourism promotion efforts within Elizabethtown and Bladen County. Serving as the chairperson for the Tourism Promotion Committee under the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, Dennison highlighted several accomplishments from 2023. READ MORE
Women’s Day will be observed at Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church
Contributed
Thoughts While Shaving
Have folks comment on my heading from time to time … No special thing I remember about ‘Thoughts’ … Used it, like it and years later, still using it…
Before I get too deep into recent thoughts … Check You Tube TV, Columbus County Community College … for an event featuring #1 son on his early days there … Rick Hester… READ MORE
3 Things To Know For Friday
1. Book Sale: Today-Saturday, Bladen County Public Library, 111 North Cypress Street, Elizabethtown.
2. Farmers Union Springfest Parade: April 27, 11 a.m., 5862 Hallsboro North, Clarkton.
3. Wildfire Awareness: May 4, 2-3 p.m., Turnbull Creek Educational State Forest, 4803 Sweet Home Church Road, Elizabethtown. READ MORE
• BLADEN ONLINE’S COMMUNITY CALENDAR
This Day in History For April 19
1892 – Charles Duryea takes the first American-made automobile for a test drive.
1932 – President Herbert Hoover suggests a five-day work week.
1995 – Oklahoma City bombing: Timothy McVeigh sets off a truck bomb at Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, killing 168. READ MORE
STORIES FROM THURSDAY, APRIL 18
Bladen County Ferry Closed Due to Mechanical Problems; Wide Load Traffic Restricted on US Highway 701N Bridge
Staff report
Public Notice From The Town Of White Lake Planning Board Meeting
Contributed
The regularly scheduled Thursday, April 18, 2024, Meeting of the Town of White Lake Planning.
The board has been postponed and rescheduled for Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 7pm. READ MORE
Town of Bladenboro Announces Notice of Special Called Meeting
Contributed
A Special Meeting of the Bladenboro Board of Commissioners has been called to meet on Monday, April 22, 2024, at 6:00 pm at 411 Ivey St. Town Hall. READ MORE
Local Students Shine in 2024 Soil & Water Conservation Contest
Staff report
Contributed photos
Bladen County Schools and Elizabethtown Christian Academy proudly announced the winners of the 2024 Bladen Soil and Water Conservation District contests. These competitions, sponsored annually by the North Carolina Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, include poster creation, essay writing, public speaking, and computer slideshow presentations, with this year’s theme focusing on “The Living Soil.” READ MORE
Commemorating Our Planet: Earth Day and Arbor Day’s Call for Environmental Stewardship
A staff report
As the 54th Earth Day approaches on Monday, April 22, followed shortly by Arbor Day, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of environmental activism and the importance of natural preservation. The inaugural Earth Day, initiated on April 22, 1970, saw 20 million Americans, a formidable 10% of the population at the time, mobilizing to call attention to pressing environmental concerns such as toxic drinking water, air pollution, and the harmful impacts of pesticides. READ MORE
Deborah Lennon is Honored with United Way Spirit of North Carolina Award
Contributed
Lumberton, NC – Lumber River United Way announced today that Deborah Lennon has been awarded the 2023 Spirit of North Carolina for United Way Community Ambassador. Deborah Lennon has modeled a dedication to community service through her fundraising, volunteer, and advocacy efforts. READ MORE
Bladen County Headlines… 50 Years Ago
*The Kelly Rescue Squad held a BarBQue dinner at the educational building of the Centerville Baptist Church in Kelly.
*New officers for the Elizabethtown Jaycees were: John Q. Shaw, President, David Hinnant, Jim McLaney, Jim Clark, Vice Presidents, Larry Barnett, Secretary, Hayes Petteway, Treasurer, new directors Leonard Chestnutt, Stuart Campbell, Wayne Edge and Jimmy Huggins. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Grieving the loss of a loved one is not an easy task. And, it seems, the number of families going through the transition from life to death recently has been unusually high … We need to be available to comfort the survivors…
Another group of volunteers are working with youngsters … Bladen County Education Foundation is sponsoring their 2nd Annual Spelling Bee … It’s next Tuesday, April 23rd, 6 p.m. at Bladen Community College … READ MORE
STORIES FROM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17
Bladen County Health and Human Services Agency Guarding Against the Buzz: A Guide to Mosquito Bite Prevention
Staff report
As the warmer months approach, mosquitoes buzz, bringing with them the risk of various diseases. Protecting yourself and your loved ones from these pests is crucial. Bladen County Health and Human Services Agency reminds residents about protection against mosquitoes. READ MORE
Advocating for Safe and Thriving Families During Child Abuse Prevention Month
Staff report
April marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time dedicated to acknowledging the critical role families and communities play in protecting children and reinforcing family resilience. It’s a month that underscores the importance of collaborative prevention services and community support in safeguarding children and empowering families. READ MORE
Vital Safety Measures to Prevent Garage Fires in Homes
A staff report
Foreign Investors Must Report U.S. Agricultural Land Holdings
Contributed
Elizabethtown, N.C., April 16, 2024 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director Chris Tatum in Bladen County reminds foreign investors with an interest in agricultural land in the United States that they are required to report their land holdings and transactions to USDA.
The Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act (AFIDA) requires foreign investors who buy, sell or hold an interest in U.S. agricultural land to report their holdings and transactions to the USDA. READ MORE
Moores Creek National Battlefield to Hold Three Separate Events Commemorating National Park Week- FREE to the Public
Contributed
Currie, NC- On Saturday April 20, from 2:00 pm until 3:30 pm, Moores Creek National Battlefield will be holding a National Park Movie event in Patriot’s Hall. Park staff and volunteers will be showing the movie “Yogi Bear.” READ MORE
Cape Fear Turf Farm Nominated for WWAY 3 Viewers’ Choice Award: Cast Your Vote Today!
Staff report
Cape Fear Turf Farm, a trusted name in landscaping and turf supply in Bladen County, has been nominated for the prestigious WWAY 3 Viewers’ Choice Award. As they vie for this esteemed recognition, they call on their loyal customers and community members to show their support by casting their votes daily until April 30th. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Yesterday’s high temp was 88 degrees … after 89 on Monday … Weather folks ‘spot on’…
I dreamed I was broadcasting Bladen County high school football … like years ago … Then realized I was starting from zero … Had no program and could not remember players names and numbers … Miss the members of our broadcast team … Ricky, Dan, Joe and others … Still a good dream… READ MORE
STORIES FROM TUESDAY, APRIL 16
Colt Ford Concert Rescheduled: New Date Set for October 11th at Cape Fear Vineyard & Winery
Staff report
In an update that will stir the hearts of music fans, White Dog Entertainment in conjunction with Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery has announced the rescheduling of the much-anticipated Colt Ford concert. Originally set for June 7th, the concert has been postponed to ensure the well-being of Colt Ford, who is on a steady road to recovery following a heart attack. READ MORE
Chamber Introduces Mark DeLap: A New Chapter for the Bladen Journal
A staff report
Photos by Jamie Corbett with www.whitelakelifenc.com
The Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its April Membership Breakfast at Ski Burger, 2015 White Lake Drive, White Lake, North Carolina. Among the attendees was Mark DeLap, the newly appointed Editor of the Bladen Journal and the guest speaker for the meeting. READ MORE
Updated – Lu Mil Vineyard’s Wine Run 5K Draws an Enthusiastic Crowd and Supports Local Charities
Lu Mil Vineyard was abuzz with activity on the morning of Saturday, April 13, 2024. Denise Bridgers, the event organizer with Lu Mil Vineyard, confirmed 404 participants had pre-registered online. As the event unfolded, 359 individuals seized the opportunity to collect their race bibs and partake in the spirited annual 5K Wine Run. READ MORE
Bladen County Health and Human Services Agency Reports First Human Case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Reported in the U.S.: CDC Issues Health Advisory
Staff report
The Bladen County Health and Human Services Agency’s recent press release confirmed the first human case of novel influenza A(H5N1) in Texas. First released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on April 1, 2024, the reported case highlights the emergence of this avian-origin virus in human populations, prompting immediate action and preventive measures. READ MORE
Cape Fear Valley Health honors three at Doctor’s Day event
Contributed
FAYETTEVILLE, NC – April 16, 2024 – Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation’s Caduceus Society honored several providers recently, when Cape Fear Valley Health Medical Staff Services held its 2024 Doctors’ Day celebration at the Center for Medical Education and Neuroscience Institute. Three awards were presented – Advanced Practice Provider (APP) of the Year, Resident of the Year, and Physician of the Year. The Caduceus Society honors the legacy of physicians in the community while providing resources which strengthen the shared vision of the medical staff. READ MORE
Cape Fear Valley Hosts Walk-in Wednesday for Career Seekers
Contributed
Join Cape Fear Valley on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month from 9 a.m. to noon for Walk-in Wednesday.
You can walk in with a resume at one of their four locations, and walk out with a job. READ MORE
Harmony Hall Village Invites Guests to a Weekend of Camping and Community
Staff report
The serene grounds of Harmony Hall Village are opening up for a special Open Camp Weekend, offering a chance to escape the hustle and reconnect with nature and history. Harmony Hall Village President Emily M. Turner extends a warm invitation to the public for a weekend filled with activities, camaraderie, and the tranquil countryside. READ MORE
Important Notice: Temporary Relocation of Colly Precinct Voting Site for Second Primary
Staff report
The Bladen County Board of Elections has announced a temporary change in the voting location for the Colly precinct for the upcoming second primary on May 14, 2024. The temporary resolution, adhering to North Carolina General Statute 163-128, which allows the board to modify polling places as deemed necessary, has been approved and will be in effect for this election. READ MORE
Bladen Community College Extends Annual Plant Sale
By Charlotte Smith
Bladen Community College (BCC) is hosting its annual plant sale, an event eagerly anticipated by the local community and initiated by agribusiness students. The first sale, held on Earth Day, April 22, 2022, coincided with the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Cape Fear Farm Credit Lobby in Building Nine and the opening of the new greenhouse on the college campus. READ MORE
Tickets Now Available for the Kevin Conner Memorial Foundation Gala
Staff report
Event organizers have announced that tickets are now on sale for the much-anticipated Kevin Conner Memorial Foundation Gala. Promising an evening of celebration and good times, this event honors the memory of North Carolina Highway Patrol Master Trooper Kevin Conner and supports the foundation’s ongoing initiatives. READ MORE
Drive with Care: North Carolina Work Zone Awareness Month Urges Safety
Staff report
To reduce accidents and fatalities, state officials emphasized the importance of driving cautiously in work zones during the launch of North Carolina Work Zone Awareness Month in April. North Carolina has numerous work zones on interstates and other four-lane highways. READ MORE
WARM NC Announces New CEO
Contributed
WILMINGTON, NC – After an extensive search, WARM NC’s Board of Directors has selected Andy Jones as the organization’s next CEO.
Board president Charles Chambers made the announcement internally to staff last week. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
High temp Monday … officially 89 degrees, hottest day of this year, so far … and you can expect more of the same.
Great news conference yesterday with Masters winner, Scottie Scheffler, a name to remember. He is for real …
Farmers will be moving equipment around over the coming days and weeks … Be patient, they do good work … we depend on them and appreciate their efforts… READ MORE
STORIES FROM MONDAY, APRIL 15
Bladen Online High School Senior Spotlight – Riley McIntyre
By: Jair McElveen
Striving for the best, this week’s high school senior spotlight is the Bladen Early College High School’s class of 2024 Valedictorian, Riley McIntyre.
Riley McIntyre is a passionate and driven scholar who started early at Clarkton School of Discovery in the Project Challenged Program. READ MORE
Bladen Community College Hosts Enthralling Touch-A-Truck Day
Staff Report
Photos by Noelia Hatchell
Bladen Community College (BCC) recently hosted its annual Touch-A-Truck Day, drawing numerous families and children to the campus for interactive and educational fun. The event featured many vehicles, allowing attendees to touch, climb on, and explore everything from ambulances and off-road trucks to tractors. READ MORE
Small Business Spotlight: Things I Love Gifts and More Elevates Gift-Giving with Unique Finds in Bladenboro, NC
Staff report
Things I Love Gifts and More is a charming gift store in downtown Bladenboro, North Carolina. Owned by Pandora Pearson, it offers thoughtful and meaningful gift-giving. READ MORE
Lu Mil Vineyard’s Wine Run 5K Draws an Enthusiastic Crowd and Supports Local Charities
Written by Charlotte Smith
Photos by Noelia Hatchell
Lu Mil Vineyard was abuzz with activity on the morning of Saturday, April 13, 2024, as 339 participants gathered for the annual 5K Wine Run. The event, held between 10:00 am and 11:30 am, offered runners and walkers a chance to enjoy the picturesque vineyard landscapes while indulging in locally produced wines. READ MORE
NC Wins 2 Federal Grants Focused on Resiliency
RALEIGH – A pair of flood-prone locations in North Carolina will benefit from federal funding aimed at improving transportation resiliency, thanks to two grants the U.S. Department of Transportation recently announced as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
USDOT awarded the N.C. Department of Transportation more than $1.8 million to reinforce the shoulder and embankments where U.S. 74 crosses the Lumber River near the Columbus County town of Boardman. READ MORE
Working Lands Trust Welcomes Four Esteemed Board Members Dedicated to Preserving North Carolina’s Agricultural Legacy
Staff report
[Gold Hill, NC] – Working Lands Trust (WLT), a statewide land trust dedicated to conserving working farms and forests, proudly announces the addition of four outstanding leaders to its Board of Directors. WLT is pleased to welcome Jessica Long, Edward Hunt, Jasmine Locklear, and Dewitt Hardee, whose diverse backgrounds and unwavering dedication to agriculture will strengthen the organization’s mission to safeguard North Carolina’s essential food and fiber industry for posterity. READ MORE
Bladen Community College Celebrates 40 Years of Small Business Support
Staff Report
Dublin, NC – The Small Business Center Network of the NC Community College System is celebrating 40 years of supporting and assisting small businesses and startups across North Carolina. Small Business Centers (SBCs) are located at each of the state’s 58 community colleges, providing confidential business counseling, seminars, and resource and referral information to small business owners and entrepreneurs. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
If you thought yesterday was a good day, weather-wise … You should really like today.
Uncle Sam expects to hear from you if you haven’t mailed your tax info … Today is April 15, deadline for filing 2023 tax info…
MacKenzie Gore, Washington Nationals baseball pitcher, is off to a great start for the season … READ MORE
STORIES FROM SUNDAY, APRIL 14
Embracing Change: 5 Bible Verses for the Seasons of Life
Staff report
As the seasons shift and change, so too do the rhythms of our lives. In moments of transition and uncertainty, finding solace and guidance in the timeless wisdom of the Bible can offer comfort and strength. Here are five powerful verses to inspire and uplift you as you navigate the changing seasons of life: READ MORE
Setting the Agenda: Bladen County Commissioners’ Meeting on Monday
Staff report
The Bladen County Board of Commissioners is gearing up for its regular meeting. Scheduled to commence promptly at 6:30 p.m., the gathering will unfold in the Commissioners’ Room, nestled within the lower level of the historic Bladen County Courthouse at 106 East Broad Street. READ MORE
Godzilla vs. Kong Movie Review: The New Empire – A Kaiju Showdown of Epic Proportions
A staff report
In the colossal clash of titans, “Godzilla vs. Kong: The New Empire,” director Adam Wingard delivers an electrifying spectacle that will thrill fans of the Monsterverse. With its jaw-dropping kaiju battles, pulse-pounding action sequences, and breathtaking visual effects, this film is a triumphant celebration of the iconic monsters’ legacy. READ MORE
Bladen County Animal Control Board Special Meeting Notice
Contributed
The Bladen County Animal Control Board will hold a Special Meeting at 6:00 pm on Monday, April 15, 2024.
The purpose of this meeting is to hold a Special Hearing. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Yesterday’s high temp was 73 degrees at the local weather station … Forecast for today … Sunday (Church Day) … Sunny with a high near 81 and windy, gusts as high as 18 mph.
A reminder from Uncle Sam. If you have not filed your 2023 tax returns … They are due before midnight Monday … OK, postmarked by that time… READ MORE
STORIES FROM SATURDAY, APRIL 13
King Street Repair In Elizabethtown, NC
A staff report
The Town of Elizabethtown recently announced repairs to the section of King Street between Poplar (Hwy 701) and Martin Luther King Drive. Terri Dennison, with the Town, emphasized the necessity of these repairs. READ MORE
Distinguished Service: Celebrating Paul, Our Director of Maintenance at Hilton Companies
Contributed
At Hilton Companies, we recognize that every team member plays a vital role in maintaining our high standards. Today, we shine a spotlight on Paul, our Director of Maintenance, whose unwavering dedication and expertise are key to our success. READ MORE
Blueberry Bliss: Exploring Bladen County’s Agricultural Heritage
A staff report
Bladen County, North Carolina, boasts a rich agricultural legacy that continues to thrive in modern times. With over 180,000 acres of farmland, agriculture remains a cornerstone of the county’s economy and culture. Among the various crops cultivated in this fertile land, blueberries stand out as a star player, earning Bladen as one of the largest blueberry producer in the state. READ MORE
Revving Up for a Cause: The American Legion Family’s 15th Annual Lake Waccamaw Ride
Staff report
Get ready to kick-start your engines for a heartwarming cause as The American Legion Family gears up for its 15th Annual Lake Waccamaw Ride. Scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024, this event is not just a rally but a beacon of hope for the children supported by the Boys and Girls Homes of North Carolina. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Interesting weather Friday (yesterday) … Windy, gusts 30 plus mph, about a quarter of an inch of rain after 6 p.m. High temp was in the low 70s … More of the same today, minus the rain…
How ’bout the Master’s golf, being played this week in Augusta, Georgia … A full field played 2nd round yesterday despite rain and wind … READ MORE
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Carvers Creek Community Kicks Off Spring with Annual May Day Celebration
Staff report
The Carvers Creek Community is excited to announce its annual May Day Celebration, a tradition that brings together friends, families, and neighbors to welcome the joys of spring with a fun-filled day of activities and delicious food.
This year’s event will take place on May 4, 2024, starting at 10:00 AM and continuing until the last dance around the May Pole is complete. READ MORE
Elizabethtown’s Kids Appreciation Day Brings Joy and Entertainment
Staff report
Elizabethtown is gearing up for a day of joyous celebration with its annual Kids Appreciation Day. Hosted by the Elizabethtown Police Department and Fire Department, this event is set to unfold behind the Elizabethtown Town Hall at 805 West Broad Street on Saturday, May 11, 2024. READ MORE
Annual Day of Caring: A Call to Action for Community Service by Lumber River United Way
Staff report
The Lumber River United Way is once again championing the spirit of community service with its highly anticipated annual Day of Caring. This volunteer-driven event, sponsored by Lumberton Chevrolet Buick GMC Hummer & GRAIL, is dedicated to uniting the community to support local nonprofits and human service providers that offer aid to those in need. READ MORE
Bladen Community College Presents a Vibrant Array of Summer Camps for All Ages
ContributedGet ready for an awesome summer of learning and fun at Bladen Community College! From children eager to explore new realms to teens and adults seeking to cultivate skills and passions, there’s an enriching experience awaiting everyone at BCC’s summer camps! READ MORE
Farmers Union Springfest Parade 2024 Coming Soon
Contributed
Bernard Goins, Vice-President of the Farmers Union Parade Committee, proudly announces the much awaited 24th annual Farmers Union Springfest Parade 2024. Set to take place on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at 11:00 AM in the vibrant communities of Columbus and Bladen counties, this parade marks a cherished tradition spanning over two decades, drawing an anticipated attendance of 300-500 enthusiastic participants and spectators alike. 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 report
The 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