Trusted Plant Expert Found at Traci’s Plant Shack
By Charlotte Smith
Traci Burney has been a fixture in Bladen County, earning the trust of many near and far for over two decades with her expertise in landscaping and gardening. For over 20 years, Traci has been the go-to source in Bladen County, offering top-notch plants at budget-friendly prices and sharing her expert insights on her products. READ MORE
Preservation of Cape Fear Memorial Bridge Completed Ahead of Schedule
Reopening of Westbound lanes to begin May 8
Contributed photo by Jeffery Hall
Contributed
WILMINGTON – The N.C. Department of Transportation will reopen lanes of the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge this week, completing the preservation project weeks in advance. “I am proud to be part of the NCDOT and this community,” Division 3 Engineer Chad Kimes said. READ MORE
Elizabethtown Community Center Advisory Board Meeting Announcement
Staff report
The Town of Elizabethtown announced the Community Center Advisory Board members and Ex Officio members have scheduled an important meeting on May 16, 2024, at 6 p.m. The meeting will occur at the Elizabethtown Fire Station, 300 East Broad Street. READ MORE
Southeast North Carolina and Northeast South Carolina Braces for Potentially Severe Weather This Thursday
Staff report
Residents in southeast North Carolina and northeast South Carolina are alert, as the National Weather Service predicts a slight risk for a severe storm this Thursday. Forecasters are issuing warnings about strong, damaging winds that could exceed 60 miles per hour and hailstones larger than one inch in diameter. READ MORE
Celebrating Teacher Appreciation Day: Honoring Educators in Bladen County, NC
A Staff Report
May 7, 2024, is officially Teacher Appreciation Day. In Bladen County, North Carolina, Teacher Appreciation Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a heartfelt acknowledgment of the tireless dedication and unwavering commitment of educators who shape the future generation. READ MORE
Elizabethtown Airport/Economic Development Commission Meeting Notice
Staff report
The Town of Elizabethtown extends a warm invitation to all interested parties for the upcoming Elizabethtown Airport/Economic Development Commission meeting scheduled for May 14, 2024, at 7:30 a.m. The meeting will take place in the Terminal Building situated at 466 Airport Road. READ MORE
National Hurricane Preparedness Week: Taking Action for a Resilient Future
A staff report
As National Hurricane Preparedness Week unfolds from May 5 to May 11, 2024, communities across the United States are urged to take proactive measures in anticipation of the upcoming hurricane season. With hurricanes looming as one of nature’s most formidable forces, early preparation and awareness are paramount to safeguarding lives and property. READ MORE
State Library Announces Federal Grants to Local Libraries
Contributed
RALEIGH, N.C. — The State Library of North Carolina announces the Community Partnerships for Literacy Mini-Grants. The eight awards go to local library projects that support the creation of literacy and learning centers in local community places. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Monday’s high temp was 86 degrees … Had brief showers … barely more than a trace of rain…
Another strong showing on the Stock Market … good for all, especially retirees…
NC highway 41 is one of the main corridors thru Bladen … Wreck east of Lumberton Monday morning, 2 killed in a head-on crash. READ MORE
3 Things To Know For Tuesday
1. NCHSAA Playoffs: Today, 6 p.m. East Bladen and West Bladen baseball and softball teams open state playoffs.
2. Story Time: Thursday, 10 a.m., Bladen County Public Library, 111 North Cypress Street, Elizabethtown.
3. Trooper Kevin Conner Memorial Foundation Gala: Saturday, 6:30 p.m., The Venue at the Grand Regal, White Lake. READ MORE
• BLADEN ONLINE’S COMMUNITY CALENDAR
This Day in History For May 7
1914 – Congress establishes Mother’s Day.
1946 – Tokyo Telecommunications Engineering (later renamed Sony) is founded with around 20 employees.
1984 – $180 million out-of-court settlement reached between Vietnam veterans and seven chemical companies in Agent Orange suit. READ MORE
STORIES FROM MONDAY, MAY 6
Carvers Creek Community Embraces Spring with Annual May Day Celebration
A staff report
On May 4, 2024, the Carvers Creek Community came alive with vibrant colors, joyous laughter, and the spirit of togetherness as it hosted its much-anticipated annual May Day Celebration. Held at the Baltimore Center, nestled in the heart of the community, this tradition brought together friends, families, and neighbors for a day of festivities, marking the arrival of spring in a spectacular fashion. READ MORE
Bladen County Schools Announces Graduation Plans
Elizabethtown, N.C— Bladen County Schools is preparing to congratulate more than 250 graduating seniors in the coming weeks.
The district will host three high school graduations.
Bladen County Schools to Host District-Wide Beta Showcase
Contributed
Elizabethtown, NC— Bladen County Schools is excited to announce the upcoming District-Wide Beta Showcase, an evening of celebration and support for our talented students as they prepare to participate in the National Beta Conventions. The event is Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the Elizabethtown Middle School gymnasium. READ MORE
Lu Mil Vineyard’s Annual May Day Jamboree Delivers Unforgettable Experience
Staff report
Dublin, NC – With spirits high and glasses full, Lu Mil Vineyard recently played host to its highly anticipated Annual May Day Jamboree, which unfolded with resounding success on Saturday, May 4, 2024. From 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM, hundreds of attendees reveled in a day of festivities that celebrated the essence of North Carolina Wine Month, leaving unforgettable memories and a lingering taste of delight. READ MORE
Bladen County Schools Ensuring Equitable Education Under ESSA
Staff report
Elly Johnson, representing Bladen County Schools, announces a pivotal event in the realm of education equity. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) mandates that Local Education Agencies (LEAs) provide eligible private school children with equitable services addressing their academic needs. READ MORE
Legacy Pediatrics joins Cape Fear Valley Health
FAYETTEVILLE, NC – May 6, 2024 – Legacy Pediatrics, which has served the Fayetteville area since 2009, has joined Cape Fear Valley Health.
NCDOT Releases Important Traffic Updates for Bladen County, NC Motorists
Staff report
Attention Bladen County motorists! The North Carolina Department of Transportation has closed Elwell Ferry Road. Please take note of the following important updates from the North Carolina Department of Transportation: READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
FYI … National Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 5-11, 2024.
Winner of the PGA CJ Byron Nelson event was Taylor Pendrith … his 1st PGA career title.
Kyle Larson passed Chris Buescher on the last lap of the AdventHealth 400 at the Kansas Speedway, posting the closest win in Cup Series history … 0.001 was the margin of victory. READ MORE
STORIES FROM SUNDAY, MAY 5
Harnessing the Transformative Power of Scripture: Insights from Five Key Bible Verses
A staff report
Scripture offers profound insights and practical wisdom for those who seek to deepen their spiritual journey. By engaging deeply with the Bible, we not only understand God’s will but also align our lives with His divine purposes. READ MORE
Movie Review: Celebrating Cinco de Mayo with Vibrant Films
A staff report
Cinco de Mayo offers an excellent opportunity to delve into films that celebrate or are inspired by Mexican culture and stories. Whether you’re in the mood for animation, drama, action, or romance this year, there’s a diverse lineup of films to enhance your celebration. READ MORE
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Authentic Chicken Tacos
A staff report
Exploring the Five P’s of Bible Study by Priscilla Shirer
A staff report
An effective Bible study method known as the Five P’s, developed by Priscilla Shirer has been shared. This approach is particularly appealing for several reasons: it requires no additional resources and imposes no strict timelines for completing sections of the Bible. READ MORE
M. Francis Daniel’s ‘The Wish Of A Fish’: A Journey to Overcome Fear
Staff report
M. Francis Daniel, a seasoned author with deep roots in the Christian community and extensive experience in ministry, has released a captivating new children’s book titled “The Wish Of A Fish.” Published by Covenant Books, this tale is about adventure and overcoming deep-seated fears through magical realism. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
This week is National Hurricane Preparedness Week … May 5 thru 11th.
The past few days have been busy in Bladen … so much going on … Bladen County Commissioners regular meeting scheduled for Monday … 6:30 p.m. in the basement of the courthouse…
Grass cutting time … pros are busy making changes or doctoring plants and lawns… READ MORE
STORIES FROM SATURDAY, MAY 4
Spring Celebrations and Accommodations offered at Lu Mil Vineyard
A staff report
Located on the historic family farmland of Lucille and Miller Taylor in Dublin, NC, Lu Mil Vineyard stands as a tribute to its namesakes. The vineyard, which has expanded to cover 78 acres in just five years, initially served as a practical field for the Taylor family to innovate and test agricultural equipment. READ MORE
Making Perfect S’mores with No Campfire
by Kayla Bell
S’mores, the iconic campfire treat, are a delightful combination of marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers. While the traditional method involves gathering around a campfire, you can still enjoy the perfect s’mores experience without leaving the comfort of your home. READ MORE
FOCUS Broadband Awards $40,000 in Community Grants
Contributed
Shallotte, NC – FOCUS Broadband recently awarded Community Connections grant funds totaling $40,000 to 18 local non-profit organizations across Brunswick, Columbus, Robeson, Bladen, and Pender counties. The funds are part of the company’s grant program, which has awarded more than $1 million dollars in community and education grants since its inception in 2006. READ MORE
HCA’s Varsity Golf Team Wins Top Awards
Contributed
The Harrells Christian Academy Varsity Golf team was named Coastal Independent Conference (CIC) champions on Monday, April 29. The team was recognized as regular season champions with a record of 29-1 and freshman Jack DuBose was named the CIC Player of the Year. READ MORE
Elizabethtown Fire Department Partners with East Bladen High School Fire Academy for Hands-On Training
Staff reportThis week, the Elizabethtown Fire Department opened its doors to the students of the Fire Academy at East Bladen High School, providing them with a unique opportunity to delve into the world of firefighting and rescue operations. The collaboration saw students engaging in hands-on demonstrations of proper extrication techniques, including whole door and roof removal from vehicles. READ MORE
Bladen County Education Foundation Hosts 2nd Annual Spelling Bee: Students Judge Adults’ Abilities
A staff report
Contributed photo by Bladen County Schools
In a delightful twist of roles, students took charge as judges while adults battled it out in the 2nd Annual Spelling Bee hosted by the Bladen County Education Foundation. Held at Bladen Community College on Tuesday, April 23rd, the event kicked off at 6 p.m., promising an evening of spelling prowess and good-natured competition. READ MORE
Elizabethtown Town Council Meeting Agenda for May 6, 2024, Now Available Online
A staff report
Elizabethtown, NC – The Town of Elizabethtown has officially posted the agenda materials for the upcoming Town Council meeting scheduled for May 6, 2024. Residents and interested parties can access all related documents by visiting the town’s official website at www.elizabethtownnc.org. READ MORE
NCDOT’s Flood Warning System Garners National Award
Contributed
RALEIGH – The N.C. Department of Transportation has won a 2024 Environmental Excellence Award for its flood warning system that allows the agency to better respond to hurricanes and other storms. The NCDOT began developing the advance-detection system after Hurricane Florence caused more than 2,500 roads to close in 2018. READ MORE
Bladen County Headlines…50 Years Ago
A Staff Report*Over 5,000 voters in Bladen County called for a runoff in the Bladen Sheriff’s race. Sheriff John B. Allen missed his bid for reelection by less than 100 votes thus bringing about a runoff with candidate Jabe T. Frink. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Not sure when there have been as many events as today … All day long and across the county … Check our Events Page … Our list is no doubt incomplete … Many are listed … but, not all…
Hope the rain is late coming … My neighbors would like for me to cut my grass/weeds… READ MORE
STORIES FROM FRIDAY, MAY 3
Bladen County Board of Education Announces Notice of Rescheduled Meeting
Contributed
The regularly scheduled meeting of the Bladen County Board of Education for Monday, May 13, at 6:00 PM, has been rescheduled to Monday, May 20, 2024, at 6:00 PM. The meeting will be held in the boardroom at the District Administration Building. READ MORE
STORIES FROM THURSDAY, MAY 2
Bladen County Schools Announces Summer Feeding Program for 2024
Staff report
Bladen County School Nutrition has unveiled its annual Summer Feeding Program, extending vital nutrition support to children during the summer break. Despite the absence of confirmed sites or mobile locations, the announcement aims to alert the public to anticipate and benefit from this essential initiative. READ MORE
Notice of Meeting: Bladen County Board of Elections
Staff report
The Bladen County Board of Elections has announced a change in their monthly meeting schedule.
Originally slated for a different date, the meeting has now been rescheduled to Monday, May 13, 2024, at 6:00 PM. READ MORE
Women’s Day Celebrated at Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church
Contributed
Women’s Day will be observed at Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church on Sunday, May 19th at 11:00 AM. Reverend Laurice Knight, formerly of the Mt. Olive Community in Elizabethtown, NC and the daughter of the late Mr. Johnnie and Mrs. Earlene Smith will be the guest preacher. READ MORE
Disney’s The Little Mermaid Staged June 5-9 at Carolina Civic Center Historic Theater in Lumberton
Contributed
Photo credit: Jody Johnson/Photorad Photography
The Carolina Civic Center Historic Theater in downtown Lumberton, NC, will be presenting the popular musical “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” June 5th through 9th. The production features a regional cast with the lead of Ariel played by Ryley Floyd. READ MORE
Let’s Eat Out, But Where?
Staff report
Yay for May, Bladen County, this is one of my favorite months.
The weather is warm, the flowers are blooming, and the fresh veggies are on the way. READ MORE
North Carolina’s March County and Area Employment Figures Released
Staff report
RALEIGH — Unemployment rates (not seasonally adjusted) decreased in 44 of North Carolina’s counties in March 2024, increased in 22, and remained unchanged in 34. Hyde County had the highest unemployment rate at 7.6 percent while Greene County had the lowest at 2.8 percent. READ MORE
STORIES FROM WEDNESDAY, MAY 1
Bladen County Schools to Host District-Wide Beta Club Showcase
A staff report
Bladen County Schools is excited to announce the upcoming district-wide Beta Showcase, scheduled for May 16, 2024, at 5:00 PM. This special event will take place in the Elizabethtown Middle School Gym, located at 1496 US Hwy 701, Elizabethtown, NC 28337. READ MORE
Celebrating Achievements: Recognizing Excellence in the Town of White Lake, NC
Staff report
Contributed photos
The Town of White Lake, NC, is proud to announce the recent achievements of several dedicated employees, as recognized by Mayor Womble during the April 9, 2024, Town of White Lake Board of Commissioners meeting. Mayor Womble took the opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments of these individuals, highlighting their commitment to excellence and service to the community. READ MORE
Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery Hosts the 2nd Annual Prime Rib Dinner for Charity
Staff report
Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery is gearing up to host the 2nd Annual Prime Rib Dinner to benefit the Jim and Sue Schultz Foundation.
The event is scheduled for June 13 at 6:30 PM in the venue’s Gallery Ballroom. READ MORE
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
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
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
Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital Invites the Public to Celebrate Nurses Week 2024
Staff reportCape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital is extending a cordial invitation to the community to celebrate Nurses Week 2024 with a touching “Blessing of the Hands Ceremony” and a “Candlelight Walk.” This event is graciously sponsored by the Bladen County Health Department in collaboration with Cape Fear Valley-Bladen. 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
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