Five Bible Verses and More: Learn About Adam and Eve
Contributed
ADAM AND EVE WERE CREATED ADULTS John 16:13 “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.”
There are several accounts in the Bible of happenings in which there is no current day explanation rather than supernatural. READ MORE
Movie Review: Celebrating National Peace Officers Week with “End of Watch”
A staff report
As National Peace Officers Week unfolds, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the bravery, dedication, and sacrifices made by law enforcement officers across the country. One film that poignantly captures the essence of police work is David Ayer’s 2012 crime drama, “End of Watch.” READ MORE
Beat the Heat: 10 Refreshing Summer Drink Recipes
by Kayla Bell
As summer temperatures soar, staying hydrated becomes a top priority. While water is essential, sometimes you crave something more flavorful to quench your thirst. READ MORE
Bladen County Board of Education to Hold Regularly Scheduled Meeting on May 20
Contributed
Elizabethtown, NC – May 18, 2024 – The Bladen County Board of Education will convene for its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, May 20, at 6:00 PM. The meeting will take place in the boardroom at the District Administration Building, located at 1489 US-701, Elizabethtown, NC. READ MORE
Bladen County Board of Commissioners Announces Agenda for May 20, 2024, Meeting
A staff report
Elizabethtown, NC – May 18, 2024 – Maria Edwards, on behalf of the County of Bladen, has announced the agenda for the upcoming Board of Commissioners’ meeting scheduled for Monday, May 20, 2024. The meeting will commence at 6:30 PM and will be held in the Commissioners’ Room, located on the lower level of the Bladen County Courthouse at 106 East Broad Street, Elizabethtown, NC. READ MORE
Harrells Christian Academy Announces Marshals for 2024 Graduation Ceremony
A staff report
Contributed photo
Harrells, NC — Harrells Christian Academy proudly announces the selection of the 2024 graduation marshals. This prestigious role has been awarded to five outstanding students: Linsey Peterson, McKenzie Peterson, Eli Hardison, Camryn Fussell, and Rebekah Bryan, who has been named Chief Marshal. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
The show must go one … and it did and will … continue today … All are invited … to the White Lake Water Festival…
My bride and I failed to get to the lake Saturday … few health issues, nothing the good folks at Bladen County Hospital could not deal with… READ MORE
3 Things To Know For Sunday
1. Pastries & Print Book Club Meeting: Monday, 3 p.m., Bladen County Library, 111 N. Cypress St., Elizabethtown.
2. Bladen County Commissioners Meeting: Monday, 6:30 p.m., Bladen County Courthouse, 106 East Broad Street, Elizabethtown.
3. Clarkton Community Day Parade: May 27, 11 a.m. READ MORE
• BLADEN ONLINE’S COMMUNITY CALENDAR
STORIES FROM SATURDAY, MAY 18
Melton’s Team Wins Elizabethtown Rotary Club Golf Tournament
A staff report
The kick-off for theWhite Lake Water Festivalbegan yesterday with the 8th Annual Elizabethtown Rotary Club Scholarship Tournament at Vineyard Golf at White Lake. It was held Friday, May 17, at Vineyard Golf At White Lake.READ MORE
North Carolina’s April Employment Figures Released
A staff report
RALEIGH — The state’s seasonally adjusted April 2024 unemployment rate was 3.5 percent, unchanged from March’s revised rate. The national rate increased 0.1 of a percentage point to 3.9 percent.
North Carolina’s unemployment rate increased 0.2 of a percentage point from a year ago. READ MORE
Bladen County Headlines…50 Years Ago
A staff report*The Comprehensive Health Planning Section Office of the North Carolina Department of Human Resources announced disapproval of the proposal of Bladen County Hospital’s plan for the proposed construction of a 100 bed hospital in Elizabethtown. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Yesterday’s high was 82 degrees… Today … Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 1 p.m.
Today, the show goes on … White Lake Water Festival set for this AM … continuing all day long, and into the evening hours … READ MORE
This Day in History For May 18
1917 – Congress passes Selective Service Act, authorizing the federal government to raise a national army for the American entry into World War I through compulsory enlistment.
1980 – Eruption of Mount St. Helens in Washington state triggers the largest landslide in history.
2023 – Final Indiana Jones film “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” premieres. READ MORE
STORIES FROM FRIDAY, MAY 17
White Lake Water Festival in Full Swing This Weekend
A staff report
White Lake, NC – The beloved White Lake Water Festival is underway, drawing crowds to enjoy various activities and entertainment. Running from Friday, May 17, through Sunday, May 19, this festival offers something for everyone, from sports enthusiasts and music lovers to families looking for a fun day out. Here’s what you can look forward to this weekend: READ MORE
Spotlight on NCHP First Sergeant A. M. Pait: A Career Dedicated to Service and Safety on North Carolina’s Highways
A staff report
First Sergeant Andrew M. Pait of the North Carolina Highway Patrol (NCHP) has served the state with honor and distinction for over two decades. First Sergeant Pait has been with the NCHP for 22 years, with a law enforcement career that spans nearly a quarter-century, beginning at just 21 years old with the Elizabethtown Police Department in 1998. READ MORE
Bladen Online High School Senior Spotlight – Dyiamon Robinson
By: Jair McElveen
This week’s high school senior spotlight is an intelligent, hardworking, and dedicated young scholar. She has been a crucial part of the recent success of East Bladen High School and has left a lasting mark, to say the very least, East Bladen High School’s Valedictorian, Dyiamon Robinson. READ MORE
Bladen Lakes Student Secures Second Place in State-Wide Soil Conservation Poster Contest
A staff report
Elizabethtown, NC — Bladen Soil and Water Conservation District is thrilled to announce that Zoe Skinner, a fourth grader from Bladen Lakes, has achieved second place in a prestigious state-wide poster contest. This annual educational competition engages students from grades 3-12 across Bladen County to express their understanding and appreciation of natural resource conservation. READ MORE
Town of Bladenboro Announces Special Meeting of the Board of Commissioners
A staff report
Bladenboro, NC—The Town of Bladenboro will hold a special meeting of the Board of Commissioners at the Town Hall on Monday, May 20, 2024, at 6:00 PM. This assembly will focus on financial planning and budgeting for the upcoming fiscal year. READ MORE
Cape Fear Valley Bladen Medical Associates Offers Healthcare to the White Lake Area
Article written by Cate DeVane with Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation as part of the SECU Public Fellows Internship Program
Suffering from sunburn, earaches, allergies or more this summer? Cape Fear Valley Bladen Medical Associates – White Lake is more than happy to provide care for your needs.
Located at 273 White Lake Drive, the clinic is part of Cape Fear Valley Health. READ MORE
Reverend Timothy Register to Deliver Baccalaureate Address at Harrells Christian Academy
A staff reportContributed photo
Harrells, NC—Harrells Christian Academy is honored to announce that Reverend Timothy Register will be the keynote speaker at the Baccalaureate service for the Class of 2024. The ceremony, a hallmark of graduation festivities, will be held this spring, marking a special occasion not only for the graduates but also for Reverend Register. READ MORE
Inaugural Smithfield Cup To Pit North Carolina & South Carolina Barbecue Teams In A Battle of State Supremacy
Contributed
ELIZABETHTOWN, N.C. – (May 16, 2024) – The inaugural Smithfield Cup will take place this fall in historic Elizabethtown, pitting barbecue teams from North Carolina and South Carolina against each other in a battle of BBQ supremacy.
The new event will be staged on Sunday, Oct. 13, on the picturesque Cape Fear Distillery grounds. READ MORE
Town of Clarkton Honors Late Mayor James “Tim” Tart for Over Three Decades of Dedicated Service
Written by Charlotte SmithClarkton, NC—On the evening of May 7th, the Town of Clarkton held a bittersweet tribute to honor the late Mayor James “Tim” Tart, who passed away on January 17, 2024, shortly after beginning his second term as Mayor. The ceremony took place before the Town Board Meeting and reflected on his more than 30 years of steadfast commitment to the community as a Commissioner and Mayor. READ MORE
Unlock Your Potential with BCC’s Dynamic Business Administration Program
A staff report
DUBLIN, NC — Bladen Community College is excited to highlight its comprehensive Business Administration Program, designed to equip students with the essential skills needed for success in today’s professional workplace. The program aims to make students’ career goals both priority and achievable, offering a pathway to various dynamic and rewarding careers. READ MORE
Application Period for Ace Academy Open
Contributed
The Town of Elizabethtown and the Curtis Brown Airport will be hosting an aviation summer camp from June 18th through June 21st at the Curtis Brown Airport from 8:00am to 12:00 pm. The camp is open to students in 5ththrough 8th grades. READ MORE
UNCW Professor Approved for Grant Funding for Vaccine Development Research
Contributed
Photo of Dr. Wang, courtesy: Michael Spencer/UNCW
UNC Wilmington Associate Professor of Chemistry Ying Wang has been approved for grant funding from NCInnovation to continue his work in developing a groundbreaking vaccine platform that he hopes will result in a universal and longer-lasting flu vaccine. The grant approval is conditioned on standard next steps, including executed grant agreements and formal notification to government partners. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
The 2024 edition of the NC Water Festival officially begins TODAY … at White Lake, NC … and all are invited … A 3-day event…
Before we look forward … let’s check the weather forecast…
Today … Patchy fog, otherwise, increasing clouds, with a high near 86. READ MORE
STORIES FROM THURSDAY, MAY 16
Newly Discovered Nile Branch Offers Insights into Ancient Egyptian Pyramid Construction
A staff report
Photos courtesy of UNCW
In a remarkable breakthrough, a research team led by Eman Ghoneim, a professor of earth and ocean sciences at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, has discovered a previously unknown branch of the Nile River. Sydney Bouchelle, Media Relations & Communications Specialist at UNCW, unveiled this significant finding, which provides new insights into the geographical layout of Egypt’s largest pyramid field, encompassing the iconic Giza complex. READ MORE
Temporary Closure: Elwell Ferry by NCDOT
A staff report
Attention travelers! The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has announced a temporary closure of the Elwell Ferry until Monday, May 20th, at 8:00 a.m. This closure is due to high water levels, prioritizing safety for all commuters. READ MORE
Former Bladen County Resident Publishes First Children’s Book
Contributed
Former Bladen County resident, Natasha Lewis Davis, is excited to announce the publishing of her first children’s book entitled, “He Doesn’t Like Me,” which is available for purchase at Faith Partner Christian Supply, 117 West Broad St., Elizabethtown, NC and on her website https://lifelinelifecoachingllc.com/products/. “He Doesn’t Like Me,” is a story of a boy being verbally bullied by another boy on the bus every day. READ MORE
Martin Named as Executive Director of the Battleship North Carolina; Bragg to Retire After 15 Years
Contributed
Photo Courtesy of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
WILMINGTON, N.C. — Dr. Jay Martin has been appointed as the new executive director of the Battleship North Carolina effective May 31, the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources announced today. Martin takes over the role from Captain Terry Bragg, who will retire June 1. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
And the rain came down … lots of rain, late yesterday, in our area … How much rain, depends on the location … Best I can tell, a total of about 2.5 inches at the local weather station … Maybe more than needed in a short time, but thankful…
Received a message late yesterday (Wednesday) about hail, golf ball size hail, in our area… READ MORE
STORIES FROM WEDNESDAY, MAY 15
Community Rallies for Firefighter Randy Jones: A Successful Fundraiser and Motorcycle Ride Event
A staff report
Contributed photo
Elizabethtown, NC – The community came together in a powerful show of support for Randy Jones, a brave firefighter who sustained severe burns in an accident this past November. The Benefit Ride for Randy Jones, organized by the Elizabethtown Fire Department and the Blue Shepherds Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club (LERC) from Sampson County, was a resounding success. READ MORE
Severe Weather Expected in Wilmington Area: National Weather Service Issues Storm Warning
A staff report
Wilmington, NC – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wilmington has issued a routine weather briefing warning residents of potential severe weather conditions from Wednesday, May 15, 2024, through Sunday, May 19, 2024. An upper disturbance and a surface cold front are expected to bring several rounds of storms to the region today, some of which may turn severe. READ MORE
Elizabethtown Hosts Free Aerospace Camp for Grades 5-8 in June
Staff report
Elizabethtown, NC – The Town of Elizabethtown, in collaboration with Curtis Brown Airport, is excited to announce a free aviation summer camp for students in grades 5 through 8. The camp will be held from June 18 to June 21, 2024, at Curtis Brown Airport, and will run daily from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. READ MORE
Volunteer Opportunities in Bladen, Brunswick, New Hanover, Onslow, and Pender Counties
A staff report
Bladen County, NC – For those interested in construction and community service, several volunteer opportunities are available in Bladen, Brunswick, New Hanover, Onslow, and Pender counties. WARM NC announced their schedule for volunteer opportunities for the upcoming week: READ MORE
Clarkton’s Community Day Parade Set for May 27: Honoring Veterans and Celebrating Community
Staff report
Clarkton, NC – The town of Clarkton is gearing up for its annual Community Day parade, scheduled to take place at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 27. Organized by Mayor Jerome Myers, this year’s parade promises to be a heartfelt tribute to veterans and an exciting celebration for the entire community. READ MORE
Trillium to launch Healthy Opportunities Pilot Program
Assisting eligible members in 15 counties for housing, transportation, food, and interpersonal safety
Contributed
GREENVILLE, NC: Trillium Health Resources will launch the Healthy Opportunities Pilot program in 15 of our counties on May 15, 2024. The pilot will cover a select set of non-medical, evidence-based services for high-risk health plan members. READ MORE
The Healing Place of New Hanover County Detox Program Celebrates First Year
Contributed
Local recovery organization modeled after nationally recognized addiction program
WILMINGTON, N.C. (May 15, 2024) – The Healing Place of New Hanover County (THPNC) is marking the first anniversary of its detox program today.
“Our detox program is the stepping-stone into long-term recovery for many individuals who walk through our doors for the first time,” said Brian Mingia, Executive Director of THPNC. READ MORE
Southeastern Community Action Partnership Hosts Fatherhood Community Resource Fair in Whiteville
A staff report
Whiteville, NC – The Southeastern Community Action Partnership (SCAP) is set to host a Fatherhood Community Resource Fair on Saturday, June 15, 2024. This event, part of SCAP’s Community Services Block Grant Program, will occur from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Mount Olive Headstart Center at 5465 Silver Spoon Road in Whiteville, NC. READ MORE
UPDATED: Dove Brothers to Perform Live Concert at Bladen Gaskins Chapel
A staff report
Bladenboro, NC—Amanda Sykes of Bladen Gaskins Chapel in Bladenboro has announced an exciting musical event featuring McCray Dove and the Dove Brothers. The concert will take place on June 8, 2024, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home, located in Bladenboro, NC 28320. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
A very busy time of the year … Planting season, White Lake Water Festival, Nearing the end of another school year …and on and on…
Weather is important … A storm moved thru the county last night … Apparently no serious consequences… READ MORE
STORIES FROM TUESDAY, MAY 14
Bladen County Public Library Invites Community to Special Storytime Event
A staff report
Contributed photo
Elizabethtown, NC – Sheila Nance, Director of the Bladen County Public Library, is thrilled to invite the community to a special Storytime event on May 16, 2024, at 10:00 AM. The event will be held at the library located at 111 N Cypress St, Elizabethtown, NC 28337. READ MORE
White Lake Water Festival Committee Announces Exciting Weekend Lineup
A staff report
The White Lake Water Festival committee took to social media today to share an exciting announcement detailing the array of events and activities scheduled for the upcoming festival weekend. The enthusiastic committee said, “We can’t wait to see YOU! READ MORE
Bladen County Schools Announces 2024-2025 Educator Awards
A staff report
Contributed photos by Bladen County Schools Social Media page
Bladen County Schools (BCS) recently celebrated the achievements of its educators and leaders in a public social media announcement. The district expressed excitement in recognizing the outstanding contributions made by these professionals over the past year. READ MORE
The Tribute for Trooper Kevin Conner Continues Successfully with the Annual Gala and the Upcoming 6th Memorial Run
A staff report
Contributed photos by Emily Dowless
In a heartfelt tribute to North Carolina State Trooper Kevin Conner, the communities of Bladen and Columbus Counties will come together on October 12, 2024, for the 6th Annual Trooper Kevin Conner Memorial Run. Organized in memory of Trooper Conner, who tragically lost his life during a traffic stop on October 17, 2018, this event aims to honor his dedication and bravery by supporting educational opportunities for local students. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Showers likely today, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 9 a.m. High near 75. Windy, gusts as high as 18 mph … 80% chance of precipitation.
Hopefully, the corn and other crops, up and coming will benefit…
Think I mentioned earlier … reminder, Vacation Bible School plans are being announced by churches in the area… READ MORE
STORIES FROM MONDAY, MAY 13
NCDOT Update CLOSURE:
(SR1794) Ed Jacobs rd
Ed Jacobs road (SR1794) will be closed 600ft from the intersection of NC Hwy 211 as of 05/13/2024 through 05/24/24 for two crossline replacements.
Mark McMichael Appointed as New Police Chief of Elizabethtown
A staff report
In a recent announcement that reverberated through the serene streets of Elizabethtown, a familiar face emerged as the beacon of law enforcement leadership.
The Town of Elizabethtown proudly declared Lieutenant Mark McMichael, the current Patrol Commander of the Elizabethtown Police Department, its new Police Chief, effective June 28, 2024.
Elizabethtown Rotary Club Gears Up for 8th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament
A staff report
The Elizabethtown Rotary Club is excited to announce its 8th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament, scheduled for Friday, May 17, 2024, at the picturesque Vineyard Golf at White Lake. This year’s tournament promises a day of sport, fun, and community spirit, kicking off the White Lake Water Festival Weekend.
Michael Leinwand, a member of the Elizabethtown Rotary Club, shared that the club has successfully registered 20 teams so far, with a goal to reach at least 25 teams. READ MORE
May Marks Lyme Disease Awareness Month: Steps to Prevent Tick Bites and Spread Awareness
A staff report
As temperatures rise and outdoor activities increase, May serves as Lyme Disease Awareness Month, drawing attention to one of the most common tick-borne illnesses in the United States. Primarily occurring in the northeast, mid-Atlantic, and upper midwestern regions, Lyme disease is transmitted through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick, also known as a deer tick.
Lyme disease can cause a variety of symptoms, some of which are severe if not treated timely. READ MORE
Community Health Needs Assessment Survey: Your Voice Matters!
Contributed
The Bladen County Health Department, in conjunction with Cape Fear Valley Health, are excited to release the Community Health Assessment survey.
The survey is a crucial component gathering data from various sources to provide insights into the health status of Bladen County residents. READ MORE
Bladen County to Host Workshop on Financial Fraud and Scams Targeting Seniors
A staff report
Bladen County Public Library, in partnership with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension, will host a crucial “Financial Fraud & Scams” workshop on May 20, 2024, at 2 p.m.
This educational event is specifically designed to arm older adults and their families with vital information to protect against financial fraud and scams. READ MORE
Bladen County Youth Shine at the 2024 4-H Regional Chicken Contest
A staff report
The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service – Bladen County Center proudly announces the results of the 2024 4-H Regional Chicken Contest, showcasing a remarkable performance by local participants across various categories. The event, which draws participants from several counties, highlights the skills and dedication of young individuals in poultry management and showmanship. READ MORE
Discover the World of Beekeeping: Join the BEES Academy Interest Meeting in Elizabethtown
A staff report
In an effort to educate and engage aspiring beekeepers, the North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Bladen County is excited to announce an upcoming interest meeting for the Beekeepers Education and Engagement System (B.E.E.S.) Academy. This meeting is scheduled for May 16, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Cooperative Extension – Bladen County Center located at 450 Smith Circle Dr., Elizabethtown, NC 28337. READ MORE
Honoring Service and Sacrifice: National Police Week and Local Memorial Events
A staff report
As National Police Week unfolds in May, communities across the United States come together to pay tribute to the courageous men and women of law enforcement who serve and protect with unwavering dedication. This annual observance, established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962 and proclaimed by President Kennedy, highlights the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers. READ MORE
Bladen County Board of Education Scheduled Meetings
Contributed
The Board of Education holds a regularly scheduled meeting each month and special called meetings as needed. All meetings are open to the public. READ MORE
Bladen Community College’s Class of 2024 Graduation: A Celebration of Achievement
Staff report
Photos by Noelia Hatchell, CAB Marketing, LLC
Bladen Community College (BCC) marked another milestone in its rich history as it hosted its annual graduation ceremony on Friday, May 11, 2024. This event, cherished by both graduates and BCC staff alike, has become a unique celebration of academic accomplishment and personal growth. READ MORE
Community Empowerment: Join Us for the Bladen County NC PreK Committee Meeting!
Contributed
Mark your calendars! The Bladen County NC PreK Committee is gearing up for an important gathering on Tuesday, May 14, 2023, at 12:00 pm. READ MORE
Thoughts While Shaving
Thought … Is there a better attended church service, year around, than Mother’s Day? If not the most attended, among the top few … Hope your day was good…
Yesterday’s weather was great … high temp in our area 78 degrees, a little breezy, highest wind gusts in the 18 to 20 mph range… READ MORE
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
2024 Bladen We Care Golf Tournament
A staff report.
The 2024 Bladen We Care Golf Tournament will be held June 20 at River Landing Golf Courses on June 20. Anyone interested in playing is ask to go to Bladen We Care website for more information: https://www.bladenwecare.com/
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.
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
Bladen Community College Presents a Vibrant Array of Summer Camps for All Ages
Contributed
Get 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