200 entries.
wrote on 12/13/2019 at 10:21 pm:
Like so many people Billy you do not know what a blessing the leadership of our current Commander-In-Chief has been to our military people. While President Obama was going all over the world "bowing" before foreign leaders; President Trump has been going all over the world letting foreign leaders know we are not going to take any more of us paying the way for the entire world. Who was it that flew over to Afghanistan this past Thanksgiving to visit out troops? Our current Commander-In- Chief. Who is it that is rebuilding our Armed Forces from the devastation inflected on it by President Obama. You got it right, President Trump. He loves this country; President Obama sold our country out by sending our industries overseas.
Like so many democrats, you take things and turn them around to meet your own liberal progressive thinking. Were you on that phone call as one of the whistle blowers listening to every word said; if so, you would know our President did not sell out our nation. His responsibility is to make sure any monies going from our government to any foreign countries DOES NOT go to corrupt countries. The HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that okayed that money is the same House that has just voted to try to put our President out of office. They are the ones who okayed money to go to a corrupt foreign government and tried to keep the President from doing his job and make sure that Ukraine is no longer corrupt. If the former VP and his son got caught up in that corruption, too bad for them. You will have to admit that $50K a year to do nothing for a foreign government company is not bad money. I get info every year from my natural gas company instructing me on how to handle it. Can't imagine what a mess it would create for a "rookie" to handle natural gas. Just think what he could have been paid IF HE DID KNOW ANYTHING THAT WOULD HAVE BENEFITTED UKRAINE!!!! But it seems it is ok if democrats do it and just the opposite if Republicans do it. Total corruption on the part of the democrats and anybody who votes for them in 2020.
By the way Billy, what branch of service did you serve in? Enough said. Let veterans speak for their President and Commander-In-Chief. Every time I go to the local VA, I stop by President Trumps photo and salute it. The democrats wont even say the PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
Like so many democrats, you take things and turn them around to meet your own liberal progressive thinking. Were you on that phone call as one of the whistle blowers listening to every word said; if so, you would know our President did not sell out our nation. His responsibility is to make sure any monies going from our government to any foreign countries DOES NOT go to corrupt countries. The HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that okayed that money is the same House that has just voted to try to put our President out of office. They are the ones who okayed money to go to a corrupt foreign government and tried to keep the President from doing his job and make sure that Ukraine is no longer corrupt. If the former VP and his son got caught up in that corruption, too bad for them. You will have to admit that $50K a year to do nothing for a foreign government company is not bad money. I get info every year from my natural gas company instructing me on how to handle it. Can't imagine what a mess it would create for a "rookie" to handle natural gas. Just think what he could have been paid IF HE DID KNOW ANYTHING THAT WOULD HAVE BENEFITTED UKRAINE!!!! But it seems it is ok if democrats do it and just the opposite if Republicans do it. Total corruption on the part of the democrats and anybody who votes for them in 2020.
By the way Billy, what branch of service did you serve in? Enough said. Let veterans speak for their President and Commander-In-Chief. Every time I go to the local VA, I stop by President Trumps photo and salute it. The democrats wont even say the PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
wrote on 12/13/2019 at 2:14 pm:
GC, you are a US military Veteran. Do you think that it is legal or ethical for the President of the US to force a foreign Country to interfere in our Elections?
wrote on 12/13/2019 at 1:12 pm:
See the democrats in Washington are not the only ones lying. Hold on Billy, the Senate will set this mess straight later on. REMEMBER WHO CONTROLS THE SENATE.
But the cat is already out of the bag, and the democrats will pay a BIG PRICE COME NOVEMBER 2020. The democrats will be shown that impeachment should not be along party lines. But their new standard will ruin all future Presidents ability to serve as he should.
But the cat is already out of the bag, and the democrats will pay a BIG PRICE COME NOVEMBER 2020. The democrats will be shown that impeachment should not be along party lines. But their new standard will ruin all future Presidents ability to serve as he should.
wrote on 12/12/2019 at 10:06 pm:
It appears that level headed Republicans are standing up for Impeachment and removal of Trump. There are ads on Fox News from "Rule of Law Republicans. Com" . They are so sickened by the House Republicans' actions in these hearings that they will actually connect you with your Congresspeople so you can demand that they vote in favor of Impeachment and removal of the Traitor in the White House.
wrote on 12/04/2019 at 9:35 am:
If what you have posted about our beloved Constitution is true AND IT IS THE WORLD'S GREATEST POLITICAL DOCUMENT, why is it that the democrat party wants to change it every time something politically goes against them. You have alluded to the current "inquiry" about removing a President of the United States from office on the basis of falsehood's, outright lies, unproven collusion, etc. At the moment the democrats want to abolish the ELECTORAL COLLEGE. While all the while OUR CONSTITUTION states that Is how the President of the United States is elected. On the other side is the democrat party pushing such anti American ideas as sixteen year old's being allowed to vote and EVERY PERSON IN OUR COUNTRY BEING ALLOWED TO VOTE. What the democrat party wants to do is destroy our nation by doing away with the very document that so many Americans revere.
Have you given any serious thought to the impeachment process? Even if it makes it to the US Senate, that chamber of our government is controlled by GUESS WHO? The Republican Party. What the democrat party needs to do is find a way to kill this "inquiry" dead in its tracks and start COLLUDING with our President on such needed legislation that will begin to start taking care of our nations crumbling infrastructure problem. Just think Billy, that would help the industry that provides your livelihood. The last time I checked, good roads were very important to the trucking industry.
You mentioned keeping our nation safe, evidently you think the way to do that is for our country to bow before foreign powers and cower to their every demand. Not so. Our last President did far too good of a job of doing that; whereas, President Trump has rebuilt our military and stood up to foreign powers who for decades have drained the treasury of the United States dry, so to speak. No more under our current President. At least you got one thing right. The Presidency of the United States IS A BULLY PULPIT; not as you would think but simply to let foreign nations know that the USA has had all it going to take, and we will PUT AMERICA FIRST. Keep on "truckin" Billy. Good to see back on BOL; although I do not agree with your democrat viewpoint, it is good to see folks expressing their views on the Guestbook.
Have you given any serious thought to the impeachment process? Even if it makes it to the US Senate, that chamber of our government is controlled by GUESS WHO? The Republican Party. What the democrat party needs to do is find a way to kill this "inquiry" dead in its tracks and start COLLUDING with our President on such needed legislation that will begin to start taking care of our nations crumbling infrastructure problem. Just think Billy, that would help the industry that provides your livelihood. The last time I checked, good roads were very important to the trucking industry.
You mentioned keeping our nation safe, evidently you think the way to do that is for our country to bow before foreign powers and cower to their every demand. Not so. Our last President did far too good of a job of doing that; whereas, President Trump has rebuilt our military and stood up to foreign powers who for decades have drained the treasury of the United States dry, so to speak. No more under our current President. At least you got one thing right. The Presidency of the United States IS A BULLY PULPIT; not as you would think but simply to let foreign nations know that the USA has had all it going to take, and we will PUT AMERICA FIRST. Keep on "truckin" Billy. Good to see back on BOL; although I do not agree with your democrat viewpoint, it is good to see folks expressing their views on the Guestbook.
wrote on 12/04/2019 at 9:35 am:
If what you have posted about our beloved Constitution is true AND IT IS THE WORLD'S GREATEST POLITICAL DOCUMENT, why is it that the democrat party wants to change it every time something politically goes against them. You have alluded to the current "inquiry" about removing a President of the United States from office on the basis of falsehood's, outright lies, unproven collusion, etc. At the moment the democrats want to abolish the ELECTORAL COLLEGE. While all the while OUR CONSTITUTION states that Is how the President of the United States is elected. On the other side is the democrat party pushing such anti American ideas as sixteen year old's being allowed to vote and EVERY PERSON IN OUR COUNTRY BEING ALLOWED TO VOTE. What the democrat party wants to do is destroy our nation by doing away with the very document that so many Americans revere.
Have you given any serious thought to the impeachment process? Even if it makes it to the US Senate, that chamber of our government is controlled by GUESS WHO? The Republican Party. What the democrat party needs to do is find a way to kill this "inquiry" dead in its tracks and start COLLUDING with our President on such needed legislation that will begin to start taking care of our nations crumbling infrastructure problem. Just think Billy, that would help the industry that provides your livelihood. The last time I checked, good roads were very important to the trucking industry.
You mentioned keeping our nation safe, evidently you think the way to do that is for our country to bow before foreign powers and cower to their every demand. Not so. Our last President did far too good of a job of doing that; whereas, President Trump has rebuilt our military and stood up to foreign powers who for decades have drained the treasury of the United States dry, so to speak. No more under our current President. At least you got one thing right. The Presidency of the United States IS A BULLY PULPIT; not as you would think but simply to let foreign nations know that the USA has had all it going to take, and we will PUT AMERICA FIRST. Keep on "truckin" Billy. Good to see back on BOL; although I do not agree with your democrat viewpoint, it is good to see folks expressing their views on the Guestbook.
Have you given any serious thought to the impeachment process? Even if it makes it to the US Senate, that chamber of our government is controlled by GUESS WHO? The Republican Party. What the democrat party needs to do is find a way to kill this "inquiry" dead in its tracks and start COLLUDING with our President on such needed legislation that will begin to start taking care of our nations crumbling infrastructure problem. Just think Billy, that would help the industry that provides your livelihood. The last time I checked, good roads were very important to the trucking industry.
You mentioned keeping our nation safe, evidently you think the way to do that is for our country to bow before foreign powers and cower to their every demand. Not so. Our last President did far too good of a job of doing that; whereas, President Trump has rebuilt our military and stood up to foreign powers who for decades have drained the treasury of the United States dry, so to speak. No more under our current President. At least you got one thing right. The Presidency of the United States IS A BULLY PULPIT; not as you would think but simply to let foreign nations know that the USA has had all it going to take, and we will PUT AMERICA FIRST. Keep on "truckin" Billy. Good to see back on BOL; although I do not agree with your democrat viewpoint, it is good to see folks expressing their views on the Guestbook.
wrote on 12/03/2019 at 11:18 pm:
This Presidential Impeachment process gets more reassuring by the day that our Founders created a bulletproof Democratic Republic as a model for the World by establishing a well thought Constitution. Equally reassuring is the depth and breadth of our Intelligence community and the personal Constitutions of each of the 12 witness in the House hearings. They are keeping our country safe in ways we may never know. Our Constitution spells out specifically that a President now or in the future should be removed when they violate it. Our current President is incapable of simply following our laws, telling the truth and worst of all is a vindictive Bully . He likes the likes of Russia and N. Korea's leaders while disrespecting our Allies'. Our country is no longer viewed as trustworthy by the World.
Our Constitution addresses what to do with any President who has no constitution.
Our Constitution addresses what to do with any President who has no constitution.
wrote on 12/03/2019 at 6:15 pm:
Oops! Doubled clicked.
wrote on 12/03/2019 at 6:12 pm:
A big thank you Charles Ray Peterson and the way he has chaired the Bladen County Board of Commissioners for the past year, also a big thank you for Mr. Gooden his service as vice-chairman; as well as all the commissioners for serving. With Mr. Ray Britt as chairman and Mr. Gooden as vice-chairman for the next year, Bladen County commissioners should have a great year taking care of the peoples business in 2020 in Mother Bladen.
wrote on 12/03/2019 at 6:12 pm:
A big thank you Charles Ray Peterson and the way he has chaired the Bladen County Board of Commissioners for the past year, also a big thank you for Mr. Gooden his service as vice-chairman; as well as all the commissioners for serving. With Mr. Ray Britt as chairman and Mr. Gooden as vice-chairman for the next year, Bladen County commissioners should have a great year taking care of the peoples business in 2020 in Mother Bladen.
wrote on 11/27/2019 at 11:14 pm:
Here it is the eve of THANKSGIVING 2019. So many things to be thankful for so I'll just say me and my family are thankful for Mother Bladen and all of its citizens which we wish a HAPPY THANKSGIVING.
wrote on 11/21/2019 at 8:08 pm:
Billy Butler, let that "revolution of dignity" start with yourself. To get a head start on it, try leaving the democrat party.
As far as the elections in Bladen County, Did the votes those two voters who tried to commit voter fraud count? If early voting is so confusing, it should be done away with.
Must admit, with only two "known" cases of "attempted voter fraud" in the election; that is not bad.
So sorry to hear about the shootings over at Smithfield this morning. I was surprised that they do not have metal detectors at a plant that big and with such a diverse work force. God grant a speedy recovery to the two victims and swift justice for the shooter.
As far as the elections in Bladen County, Did the votes those two voters who tried to commit voter fraud count? If early voting is so confusing, it should be done away with.
Must admit, with only two "known" cases of "attempted voter fraud" in the election; that is not bad.
So sorry to hear about the shootings over at Smithfield this morning. I was surprised that they do not have metal detectors at a plant that big and with such a diverse work force. God grant a speedy recovery to the two victims and swift justice for the shooter.
wrote on 11/21/2019 at 3:12 pm:
America needs a Revolution of Dignity, not unlike Ukraine.
The entire world now knows that Ukraine has a President with Dignity and America does not.
The entire world now knows that Ukraine has a President with Dignity and America does not.
wrote on 11/21/2019 at 1:26 pm:
Actually, I am pleased that state investigators determined that there was NO fraud in the case of two voters who voted in the last election.
Just as in nearly every case of reported voter fraud, there was no attempt by a voter to intentionally vote illegally.
Our elections board can say with confidence that the election was conducted fairly and legally for the first time in many years in Bladen County, and our board and staff are determined that the 2020 elections will also be without fraud.
However, if we see or hear of anything that suggests otherwise, we will again report it to state investigators to determine the truth of the allegations, as was done in the case of these two reports.
Again, state investigators determined that there was NO election fraud in these two cases, and audits conducted locally and by the state have found NO irregularities in voting in 2019 in Bladen County in either absentee, in person early voting, or on Election Day.
And after what happened in the 2018 elections (and for many years previous to that) I can assure you that there are many eyes on Bladen County Elections looking for any possible violations.
Just as in nearly every case of reported voter fraud, there was no attempt by a voter to intentionally vote illegally.
Our elections board can say with confidence that the election was conducted fairly and legally for the first time in many years in Bladen County, and our board and staff are determined that the 2020 elections will also be without fraud.
However, if we see or hear of anything that suggests otherwise, we will again report it to state investigators to determine the truth of the allegations, as was done in the case of these two reports.
Again, state investigators determined that there was NO election fraud in these two cases, and audits conducted locally and by the state have found NO irregularities in voting in 2019 in Bladen County in either absentee, in person early voting, or on Election Day.
And after what happened in the 2018 elections (and for many years previous to that) I can assure you that there are many eyes on Bladen County Elections looking for any possible violations.
wrote on 11/20/2019 at 9:53 pm:
There will be a public meeting at Tar Heel School on December 3rd at 6 pm on the subject of chemical contamination from DuPont/Chemours. Presenters will include environment scientists and other experts who will answer questions about the effects of exposure to chemical contaminants.
News broke this week that chemical contamination from DuPont/Chemours has spread further than known before. A drinking well 9 miles from the plant and across the Cape Fear River has tested at 2100 ppt of PFAs contamination. NC officials claim anything below 140 ppt is "safe" for humans and animals. Yet Cumberland County will not allow children in Gray's Creek to drink water at their school that tested at only 5 ppt. Our county water has tested at over three times higher than that, and we are paying to drink that contaminated water. Thousands of people in the area are drinking water from private wells that contain chemicals.
News broke this week that chemical contamination from DuPont/Chemours has spread further than known before. A drinking well 9 miles from the plant and across the Cape Fear River has tested at 2100 ppt of PFAs contamination. NC officials claim anything below 140 ppt is "safe" for humans and animals. Yet Cumberland County will not allow children in Gray's Creek to drink water at their school that tested at only 5 ppt. Our county water has tested at over three times higher than that, and we are paying to drink that contaminated water. Thousands of people in the area are drinking water from private wells that contain chemicals.
wrote on 11/20/2019 at 11:08 am:
You can run those cameras and keep those microphones recording 24/7 and you will not find election fraud that involves any actions I have ever taken. As for stupid things, that is possible; however, Momma always said that people who do stupid things can spot a stupid thing a mile off. Thanks for noticing all the stupid things going on! Must be a lot of stupid things and stupid people going on around you. But they would have to be people from another area, because people from Mother Bladen are not stupid, do not like to be called stupid; that is unless some chose to be stupid of their own free will. We are trying every day to get these people to change their mindset.
You sure have been indoctrinated by the national democrat party philosophy,because all they have been doing since the last Presidential election is to go from one obnoxious investigation or complaint to another. Their latest being an "INQUIRY". They simply do not know how to govern because all that entails is taking care of the governs business. There again folks, you have heard it right from someone in the know; the PLEDGE and business relating to it is and I quote "NONSENSE". Don't think that quite floats in Mother Bladen unless one is running in democrat circles. All I hear is, I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND TO THE REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS ONE NATION UNDER GOD INDIVISABLE WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE TO ALL.
As far as election fraud is concerned, you will never do away with it completely as evidenced in the last election. which occurred while you were on the BOE. Know it made your blood boil to see that two cases of election fraud were dismissed. At least though, one case was against a democrat voter and one against a republican voter. I'll tell you when election fraud will stop, when the final trumpet sounds.
Again, trying to tell BOL how do to their job. They have as much right to be in attendance at any county board meeting as do all citizens of Mother Bladen. Of course, if those cameras and microphones keep rolling, any news media outlet can just contact one of those folks with the cameras and the microphones and get the "scoop" from them. But is it be legal to print something that was obtained illegally? Still checking that situation out.
Keep those meetings entertaining, and one way to do that is to get a set of flags for the meeting room so after the PLEDGE is said, that the board can get on to the business of the Bladen County voter. Ask anyone and they will say that the election process in Mother Bladen has been entertaining over the last few years. And is staying so with 2 cases of election fraud in the last election.
You sure have been indoctrinated by the national democrat party philosophy,because all they have been doing since the last Presidential election is to go from one obnoxious investigation or complaint to another. Their latest being an "INQUIRY". They simply do not know how to govern because all that entails is taking care of the governs business. There again folks, you have heard it right from someone in the know; the PLEDGE and business relating to it is and I quote "NONSENSE". Don't think that quite floats in Mother Bladen unless one is running in democrat circles. All I hear is, I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND TO THE REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS ONE NATION UNDER GOD INDIVISABLE WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE TO ALL.
As far as election fraud is concerned, you will never do away with it completely as evidenced in the last election. which occurred while you were on the BOE. Know it made your blood boil to see that two cases of election fraud were dismissed. At least though, one case was against a democrat voter and one against a republican voter. I'll tell you when election fraud will stop, when the final trumpet sounds.
Again, trying to tell BOL how do to their job. They have as much right to be in attendance at any county board meeting as do all citizens of Mother Bladen. Of course, if those cameras and microphones keep rolling, any news media outlet can just contact one of those folks with the cameras and the microphones and get the "scoop" from them. But is it be legal to print something that was obtained illegally? Still checking that situation out.
Keep those meetings entertaining, and one way to do that is to get a set of flags for the meeting room so after the PLEDGE is said, that the board can get on to the business of the Bladen County voter. Ask anyone and they will say that the election process in Mother Bladen has been entertaining over the last few years. And is staying so with 2 cases of election fraud in the last election.
wrote on 11/20/2019 at 8:49 am:
Or maybe just don't act stupid or engage in election fraud and you don't have to worry about being caught doing anything stupid and/or corrupt.
Maybe Bladenonline, GC Bryan, and his little group of complainers can move on to their next line of attack. Everyone who has contacted me has said they don't care one way or the other about the Pledge as long as our board stoped election fraud and they are sick of hearing this nonsense.
And I don't want to give GC Bryan any more time or attention, nor do I want to give a Bladen.online any more visits than it deserves.
Maybe Bladenonline, GC Bryan, and his little group of complainers can move on to their next line of attack. Everyone who has contacted me has said they don't care one way or the other about the Pledge as long as our board stoped election fraud and they are sick of hearing this nonsense.
And I don't want to give GC Bryan any more time or attention, nor do I want to give a Bladen.online any more visits than it deserves.
wrote on 11/19/2019 at 9:41 pm:
Based on what has been posted on PLEDGE matter, it appears that everyone who enters the BOE building better be careful what they say; never know whose cell phone will be going. Word has it that two people who enter that building have their mini camera and recorder going at all times while they are on the property. Since it is Bladen County property, one would have to surmise such activity would need to cease and desist as of opening time tomorrow. And for sure we don't need to be telling voters of Bladen County what to sing or do on county property long as it is legal; neither should they be told they are stupid. that does not sit well with the voters of Bladen County. It has taken more than 15 seconds to do this post so here it goes, I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND TO THE REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS ONE NATION UNDER GOD INDIVISIABLE WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. To include even those who don't take part in the PLEDGE.
wrote on 11/19/2019 at 9:41 pm:
Based on what has been posted on PLEDGE matter, it appears that everyone who enters the BOE building better be careful what they say; never know whose cell phone will be going. Word has it that two people who enter that building have their mini camera and recorder going at all times while they are on the property. Since it is Bladen County property, one would have to surmise such activity would need to cease and desist as of opening time tomorrow. And for sure we don't need to be telling voters of Bladen County what to sing or do on county property long as it is legal; neither should they be told they are stupid. that does not sit well with the voters of Bladen County. It has taken more than 15 seconds to do this post so here it goes, I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND TO THE REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS ONE NATION UNDER GOD INDIVISIABLE WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. To include even those who don't take part in the PLEDGE.
wrote on 11/19/2019 at 8:36 pm:
If you are stupid enough to act the fool in a public building with people in the room on their cell phones, being recorded is the least of your problems.
Are you ashamed of your hateful rendition twisting the words of. "God Bkess America"? Your companions seemed to enjoy it, and you certainly were not trying to hide it. You seemed quite pleased with yourself.
Maybe you should just be more careful where you try to show off.
Are you ashamed of your hateful rendition twisting the words of. "God Bkess America"? Your companions seemed to enjoy it, and you certainly were not trying to hide it. You seemed quite pleased with yourself.
Maybe you should just be more careful where you try to show off.
wrote on 11/19/2019 at 12:30 pm:
There you have it Bladen County voters. The voices of private citizens are being recorded on Bladen County property by "a cell phone". Now the question becomes, whose cell phone was it? I had heard that this kind of stuff was happening over at the BOE building and now we have it verified by a member of the BOE. Isn't there a law against anyone being recorded unless they are notified ahead of time?
wrote on 11/19/2019 at 12:09 pm:
Look out Preacher Hayes, "perhaps" she is already getting tired of your opening invocation and no doubt the part of the agenda that calls for those wishing to speak to the board. Of course, Mrs. Thompson the board chair person along with state board guidelines would have something to say about that. Again, this whole deal about a 15 second recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to our flag; I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND TO THE REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS ONE NATION UNDER GOD INDIVISIBLE WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. Still only about 15 seconds. I am sure there are enough patriotic school children who would love to come and led the PLEDGE.
wrote on 11/19/2019 at 9:35 am:
Perhaps the best solution is to remove all items from the agenda that are not Elections related and just stick to business since there is plenty of that to handle.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 11:14 pm:
Hello. I wanted to stop by to let people know I am back at Lumberton Chevrolet. If you need a vehicle or know someone who does, please let me know. My office number is 910-739-7577. My cell number is 910-862-9210 and my email is rgooden1@intrstar.net. Come see me!
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 9:59 pm:
Don't know about other Republicans habits as far as "dancing" "singing" and "high 'fixing it' but I can assure anyone in Bladen County that I do not know how to dance nor sing; although I have been accused of singing from time to time. As far as patting anyone on the back, some people do not know how to show people they appreciate them by
giving a pat on the back. It is amazing what comes from a person that said, and I quote, "I've learned my lesson".
This discussion is about one thing and one thing only; that being I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND TO THE REPUBLICA FOR WHICH IT STANDS ONE NATION UNDER GOD INDIVISABLE WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. Right at 15 seconds. Saying it serves another purpose during these cold weather months, gets the blood circulating for the exciting meeting to follow.
It takes 5 minutes to talk to the State BOE office according to the distinguished former Bladen County person now being a resident of Charlotte. It takes only 15 SECONDS TO SAY THE PLEDGE. Do encourage every voter to lesson in on the SBOE meeting the week of Thanksgiving if for no other reason than to hear how they conduct themselves. Believe that board gave local boards a little advice the last time about keeping out of the news as much as possible. That for sure has not been heeded even by the one who made the famous statement, "I have learned my lesson".
The "smart" thing for the local board to do is vote to start saying the PlEDGE right after the invocation and get on with the voters business in Mother Bladen.
giving a pat on the back. It is amazing what comes from a person that said, and I quote, "I've learned my lesson".
This discussion is about one thing and one thing only; that being I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND TO THE REPUBLICA FOR WHICH IT STANDS ONE NATION UNDER GOD INDIVISABLE WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. Right at 15 seconds. Saying it serves another purpose during these cold weather months, gets the blood circulating for the exciting meeting to follow.
It takes 5 minutes to talk to the State BOE office according to the distinguished former Bladen County person now being a resident of Charlotte. It takes only 15 SECONDS TO SAY THE PLEDGE. Do encourage every voter to lesson in on the SBOE meeting the week of Thanksgiving if for no other reason than to hear how they conduct themselves. Believe that board gave local boards a little advice the last time about keeping out of the news as much as possible. That for sure has not been heeded even by the one who made the famous statement, "I have learned my lesson".
The "smart" thing for the local board to do is vote to start saying the PlEDGE right after the invocation and get on with the voters business in Mother Bladen.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 8:41 pm:
Congratulations to Sheila Ford Duncan previously of the Clarkton Blue Devils. She will be recognized by her college team of 35 years ago for the records she set while in college. Several of the records still stand today. Quite an accomplishment.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 3:44 pm:
The Phone # 919-814-2000 given in the update on the Board of Elections was for the Governor's office. The Governor's office gave me the Board of Election's #919-814-0700 . Call these People and show your support for all the members of the Bladen County Board of Elections who are performing a very serious function. It only takes 5 minutes to ask them to end the intimidation and harassment of the Board.
Bladen County has been embarrassed enough already...
Bladen County has been embarrassed enough already...
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 2:07 pm:
No, it was right inside the BOE office before a meeting where there are plenty of surveillance cameras to record what happens. Your rather off-key rendition of a song you altered to ask "God Bless America" except for "the Democrats" was clearly captured on a cellphone in the room. As were the antics of your fellow celebrants.
Probably not the smartest thing you have ever done.
And again, you are free to salute and pledge to the flag every time you darken the BOE office door where it is displayed in the foyer. And the cameras will record that too.
Probably not the smartest thing you have ever done.
And again, you are free to salute and pledge to the flag every time you darken the BOE office door where it is displayed in the foyer. And the cameras will record that too.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 1:30 pm:
"Free Speech" is the issue and two members of the board are denying the citizens that right when they attend the BOE meeting by not allowing them to pledge allegiance to the American flag. Seems the Bladen Journal would be the one being attacked about "free speech". I and one other person who is a member of the BOE know about that. Remember the sheriff in the old western towns would "post" someone out of town?
Reverting back to the old style of telling people what to do? Mrs. Smith is in charge of BOL not a member of the BOE and she determines how long this issue about the pledge will continue to be discussed on HER media outlet. The BOE could end it at the next meeting and vote to have the Pledge of Allegiance said right after the invocation at their meetings.
Billy Butler, since you are a big business man up in Charlotte, why don't you buy enough paneling to cover the walls in the current BOE meeting room. If the county maintenance crew can't put it up, we'll try to hire some local carpenters to put it up.
Folks, it has been mentioned about things being recorded AND it had to have been done outside of the BOE building. The whole comment on this was an out and out lie; however, I will warn the citizens of Bladen County, be very careful when you are around a couple of individuals that live in Bladen County; word has it that they wear cameras and a microphone in case a person they are talking with begins to disagree with them. Reminds me of God, he knows everything about us; but from what I know about these two individuals, they are far being God.
Reverting back to the old style of telling people what to do? Mrs. Smith is in charge of BOL not a member of the BOE and she determines how long this issue about the pledge will continue to be discussed on HER media outlet. The BOE could end it at the next meeting and vote to have the Pledge of Allegiance said right after the invocation at their meetings.
Billy Butler, since you are a big business man up in Charlotte, why don't you buy enough paneling to cover the walls in the current BOE meeting room. If the county maintenance crew can't put it up, we'll try to hire some local carpenters to put it up.
Folks, it has been mentioned about things being recorded AND it had to have been done outside of the BOE building. The whole comment on this was an out and out lie; however, I will warn the citizens of Bladen County, be very careful when you are around a couple of individuals that live in Bladen County; word has it that they wear cameras and a microphone in case a person they are talking with begins to disagree with them. Reminds me of God, he knows everything about us; but from what I know about these two individuals, they are far being God.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 1:30 pm:
"Free Speech" is the issue and two members of the board are denying the citizens that right when they attend the BOE meeting by not allowing them to pledge allegiance to the American flag. Seems the Bladen Journal would be the one being attacked about "free speech". I and one other person who is a member of the BOE know about that. Remember the sheriff in the old western towns would "post" someone out of town?
Reverting back to the old style of telling people what to do? Mrs. Smith is in charge of BOL not a member of the BOE and she determines how long this issue about the pledge will continue to be discussed on HER media outlet. The BOE could end it at the next meeting and vote to have the Pledge of Allegiance said right after the invocation at their meetings.
Billy Butler, since you are a big business man up in Charlotte, why don't you buy enough paneling to cover the walls in the current BOE meeting room. If the county maintenance crew can't put it up, we'll try to hire some local carpenters to put it up.
Folks, it has been mentioned about things being recorded AND it had to have been done outside of the BOE building. The whole comment on this was an out and out lie; however, I will warn the citizens of Bladen County, be very careful when you are around a couple of individuals that live in Bladen County; word has it that they wear cameras and a microphone in case a person they are talking with begins to disagree with them. Reminds me of God, he knows everything about us; but from what I know about these two individuals, they are far being God.
Reverting back to the old style of telling people what to do? Mrs. Smith is in charge of BOL not a member of the BOE and she determines how long this issue about the pledge will continue to be discussed on HER media outlet. The BOE could end it at the next meeting and vote to have the Pledge of Allegiance said right after the invocation at their meetings.
Billy Butler, since you are a big business man up in Charlotte, why don't you buy enough paneling to cover the walls in the current BOE meeting room. If the county maintenance crew can't put it up, we'll try to hire some local carpenters to put it up.
Folks, it has been mentioned about things being recorded AND it had to have been done outside of the BOE building. The whole comment on this was an out and out lie; however, I will warn the citizens of Bladen County, be very careful when you are around a couple of individuals that live in Bladen County; word has it that they wear cameras and a microphone in case a person they are talking with begins to disagree with them. Reminds me of God, he knows everything about us; but from what I know about these two individuals, they are far being God.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 1:30 pm:
"Free Speech" is the issue and two members of the board are denying the citizens that right when they attend the BOE meeting by not allowing them to pledge allegiance to the American flag. Seems the Bladen Journal would be the one being attacked about "free speech". I and one other person who is a member of the BOE know about that. Remember the sheriff in the old western towns would "post" someone out of town?
Reverting back to the old style of telling people what to do? Mrs. Smith is in charge of BOL not a member of the BOE and she determines how long this issue about the pledge will continue to be discussed on HER media outlet. The BOE could end it at the next meeting and vote to have the Pledge of Allegiance said right after the invocation at their meetings.
Billy Butler, since you are a big business man up in Charlotte, why don't you buy enough paneling to cover the walls in the current BOE meeting room. If the county maintenance crew can't put it up, we'll try to hire some local carpenters to put it up.
Folks, it has been mentioned about things being recorded AND it had to have been done outside of the BOE building. The whole comment on this was an out and out lie; however, I will warn the citizens of Bladen County, be very careful when you are around a couple of individuals that live in Bladen County; word has it that they wear cameras and a microphone in case a person they are talking with begins to disagree with them. Reminds me of God, he knows everything about us; but from what I know about these two individuals, they are far being God.
Reverting back to the old style of telling people what to do? Mrs. Smith is in charge of BOL not a member of the BOE and she determines how long this issue about the pledge will continue to be discussed on HER media outlet. The BOE could end it at the next meeting and vote to have the Pledge of Allegiance said right after the invocation at their meetings.
Billy Butler, since you are a big business man up in Charlotte, why don't you buy enough paneling to cover the walls in the current BOE meeting room. If the county maintenance crew can't put it up, we'll try to hire some local carpenters to put it up.
Folks, it has been mentioned about things being recorded AND it had to have been done outside of the BOE building. The whole comment on this was an out and out lie; however, I will warn the citizens of Bladen County, be very careful when you are around a couple of individuals that live in Bladen County; word has it that they wear cameras and a microphone in case a person they are talking with begins to disagree with them. Reminds me of God, he knows everything about us; but from what I know about these two individuals, they are far being God.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 11:39 am:
Maybe Charlotte can do an article solely about the facility that the Board of elections uses. Heat/air included. That very building is famous.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 10:52 am:
It will be interesting to see how long "free speech" lasts on this site this time. I am thinking if I continue to post it will end pretty quickly.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 10:31 am:
When it comes to politics in Bladen County anything is possible, but I doubt it took much to convince her to stir this up.
And I believe she has shown her dedication to "free speech" ebbs and flows with the dollars of her advertisers.
And I believe she has shown her dedication to "free speech" ebbs and flows with the dollars of her advertisers.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 10:00 am:
It is possible that Charlotte was pressured to go. I appreciate her allowing free speech on her Newspaper.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 9:28 am:
First of all, nobody has been denied their right to say the Pledge. There is a flag in the foyer of the elections office. You are free to stop, salute the flag, recite the Pledge, and have your picture taken with it if you choose.
Secondly, as far as being "suspicious" of anyone who does not want to recite an oath written by a white supremacist, I think that is more an indictment of your beliefs than mine.
Thirdly, of everyone who has voiced their opinion on this site about the subject, Charlotte Smith has been to ONE meeting, and only then to stir up this controversy in concert with a GC Bryan.
And Mr. Butler is exactly right about our meetings. They are held in an unheated warehouse with bare stud walls and plastic tables and chairs, and are usually pretty technical and dull.
In fact, I apparently missed the most interesting part when when GC and his buddies like Pat Melvin and Ray Britt high-fixed, slapped each other on the back, and sang and danced to celebrate getting Ms. Thompson and I "thrown off the board". Oops.
Thank goodness it was recorded so that I could see it for myself.
Secondly, as far as being "suspicious" of anyone who does not want to recite an oath written by a white supremacist, I think that is more an indictment of your beliefs than mine.
Thirdly, of everyone who has voiced their opinion on this site about the subject, Charlotte Smith has been to ONE meeting, and only then to stir up this controversy in concert with a GC Bryan.
And Mr. Butler is exactly right about our meetings. They are held in an unheated warehouse with bare stud walls and plastic tables and chairs, and are usually pretty technical and dull.
In fact, I apparently missed the most interesting part when when GC and his buddies like Pat Melvin and Ray Britt high-fixed, slapped each other on the back, and sang and danced to celebrate getting Ms. Thompson and I "thrown off the board". Oops.
Thank goodness it was recorded so that I could see it for myself.
wrote on 11/18/2019 at 9:10 am:
I would think that American Indians would have no interest in showing up for a for a protest to force the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance of the very same flag that US soldiers waved as they systematically crossed their Country killing their men, women and children and stealing their land.
wrote on 11/17/2019 at 5:34 pm:
Our country is being betrayed, but it is by the democrats in the House of Representatives; the most do nothing house in the history of that body. Locally, the citizens of Mother Bladen are being denied the right to say the pledge of allegiance at the Board of elections meetings by at least two of the three democrats on that board. Both of the Republican members of said board have served in the armed forces of our nation, if I make no mistake; a slap in the face of those two members by at least two of the three democrat members.
Bladen County citizens, don't you think it is about time the chairperson of that board bring to a vote the right to say the pledge of allegiance at board meetings. Even Colin Kapernick had the right to kneel instead of placing his hand over his heart. Here in Bladen County, we don't even get the right to stand, kneel, do anything when it comes to the flag.
By the way, if any Election Board member thinks they will keep any citizen of Bladen county from going to an election board meeting; the board will have to start having the entire meeting in closed session. Where are you democrat party of Bladen County? Where are you the black, Indian, etc. veterans of Bladen County? Does the flag we as veterans, served under during our tenure of service to this nation mean nothing except on Veterans Day?
One last thing for this post. A question to Mrs. Thompson. Does a public invitation by a board member to any citizen of Mother Bladen to say the Pledge at a Board meeting, mean they have the right to do it? If not, please instruct that board member to quit giving out those invitations.
Bladen County citizens, don't you think it is about time the chairperson of that board bring to a vote the right to say the pledge of allegiance at board meetings. Even Colin Kapernick had the right to kneel instead of placing his hand over his heart. Here in Bladen County, we don't even get the right to stand, kneel, do anything when it comes to the flag.
By the way, if any Election Board member thinks they will keep any citizen of Bladen county from going to an election board meeting; the board will have to start having the entire meeting in closed session. Where are you democrat party of Bladen County? Where are you the black, Indian, etc. veterans of Bladen County? Does the flag we as veterans, served under during our tenure of service to this nation mean nothing except on Veterans Day?
One last thing for this post. A question to Mrs. Thompson. Does a public invitation by a board member to any citizen of Mother Bladen to say the Pledge at a Board meeting, mean they have the right to do it? If not, please instruct that board member to quit giving out those invitations.
wrote on 11/17/2019 at 3:48 pm:
There is a great video titled Helen Crump on youtube of an episode of The Andy Griffith Show in which Helen Trump tells Opie and the Boys how they should respect the Pledge of Allegiance more. It seems that the Pledge of Allegiance has caused many debates over the years.
wrote on 11/17/2019 at 1:18 pm:
I don't understand why anyone would want to be an audience at Board of elections meetings anyway. That's gotta be one of the most boring hour ever.
wrote on 11/17/2019 at 11:03 am:
All of this debate about the Pledge of Allegiance shows how some people will find fault with everything. No, it's not a law that people should stand and recite it. Nobody ever said it was. I certainly want to keep our freedoms that allow "protesters" with chips on their shoulders to sit it out. However, I'm suspicious of anyone who doesn't want to say it. All it says is that you are loyal to America and our republic. If you are not loyal to America you than are against America and the real mystery is why you are even here when you don't have to be. Nobody is forced to stay in our country they hate. Whether you are a citizen or illegal alien, if you hate America, you are free to move at any time (unlike many other countries).
The Pledge of Allegiance was written in August 1892 by the socialist minister Francis Bellamy. Funny how people keep pointing out that he was a racist (probably was since most people were back then). He was a socialist! Liberals should love him. Funny how us conservatives still want to say the pledge even though we despise socialism and it was written by a socialist. The bottom line is that we don't care how or why it came about. We aren't looking for excuses not to say it. It only says that we are loyal to our country. Nothing more; nothing less. We can accept the pledge for what it is without agreeing with the values of the person who wrote it. Patriotism and loyalty are excellent values. Too bad everyone doesn't believe it.
The Pledge of Allegiance was written in August 1892 by the socialist minister Francis Bellamy. Funny how people keep pointing out that he was a racist (probably was since most people were back then). He was a socialist! Liberals should love him. Funny how us conservatives still want to say the pledge even though we despise socialism and it was written by a socialist. The bottom line is that we don't care how or why it came about. We aren't looking for excuses not to say it. It only says that we are loyal to our country. Nothing more; nothing less. We can accept the pledge for what it is without agreeing with the values of the person who wrote it. Patriotism and loyalty are excellent values. Too bad everyone doesn't believe it.
wrote on 11/17/2019 at 10:32 am:
Mr. Butler, I agree that what we are experiencing locally is a reflection of what is happening nationally- those people who speak up and fight against corruption are subjected to attempts to use harrassnent and intimidation to silence them and let the corruption continue.
I believe every knowledgeable person in Bladen County, regardless of their political and moral beliefs, sees the continuing personal attacks against Mrs. Thompson and myself for exactly what they are- desperate attempts by those who want election fraud to continue unabated in Bladen County as it did until the current board was installed in April.
I have no doubts these efforts to subvert us will continue as long as our tenure as board members striving to do what is legally and ethically correct lasts. Once their pretense of concern about the Pledge is resolved, these same agents will simply move on to a new line of attack.
Meanwhile, our board will continue to work to make elections in Bladen County as honest, fair, and free of corruption as we possibly can.
I believe every knowledgeable person in Bladen County, regardless of their political and moral beliefs, sees the continuing personal attacks against Mrs. Thompson and myself for exactly what they are- desperate attempts by those who want election fraud to continue unabated in Bladen County as it did until the current board was installed in April.
I have no doubts these efforts to subvert us will continue as long as our tenure as board members striving to do what is legally and ethically correct lasts. Once their pretense of concern about the Pledge is resolved, these same agents will simply move on to a new line of attack.
Meanwhile, our board will continue to work to make elections in Bladen County as honest, fair, and free of corruption as we possibly can.
wrote on 11/17/2019 at 1:14 am:
Russia has moved into an abandoned US military base in northern Syria today. And Syria's Dictator dines with the Trump in OUR White House in the same week. Our Country is being betrayed. If Any Congressman does not vote to remove Trump, they are complicit. We are surrendering if we don't step up like never before.
wrote on 11/16/2019 at 11:23 pm:
"There are those who wrap themselves in flags and blow the tinny trumpet of patriotism as a means of fooling the people." - George Calloway
wrote on 11/16/2019 at 11:04 pm:
"If patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel, it is not merely because evil deeds may be performed in the name of patriotism, but because patriotic fervor can obliterate moral distinctions altogether." - Ralph Perry
wrote on 11/16/2019 at 10:23 pm:
Putting lipstick on intimidation and calling it patriotism has gotten old to many Americans . From Trump to the people who masquerade as Christians Pastors have sold their Souls and their enablers are accessories. Russian political tactics will no longer work here.
wrote on 11/16/2019 at 9:26 pm:
Or those who don't like it when meetings don't start with a pledge could just boycott those meetings and refuse to attend in protest.
wrote on 11/16/2019 at 8:57 pm:
Just what we need, a misinformed comedian democrat. The preacher has not even been charged. How can a blue dog democrat think that at least to of the three democrats on the Bladen Board of Elections would be the right choice. A better thing to tell the Governor, the State Board of elections, and the Bladen county democrat party is to start honoring the Pledge of Allegiance at all board meetings that represent the people of North Carolina. Since you have joined in this discussion of the Pledge of Allegiance, I wonder what your Dad would have to say about it. This is America and that flag is our flag; from the White House to the county courthouse and Boards of Elections and Education. We as Americans are represented by the people on these boards, elected or appointed; it is about time those who think differently realize this and start performing their duties as servants of the people they represent. If they don't want to do so, resign and let someone take their place that cherishes the fact that they are Americans and PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND TO REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS ONE NATION UNDER GOD INDIVISIBLE WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. That includes you Billy.
One last thing for this post, has anyone ever attended any meeting where the PLEDGE was said and someone escorted anyone not saying it out of the room? Didn't think so. But on the other hand, those who would hinder the pledge from being said are HINDERING ALL WHO WOULD LIKE TO SAY IT. Think about it folks. It is only RIGHT to be given the opportunity at all government board meetings to be able to say the PLEDGE. If Roy Cooper doesn't think so, he does not desrve to be the Governor of North Carolina. I just timed it folks and it takes all of 15 seconds to say. But some will say it takes too much time!!!
One last thing for this post, has anyone ever attended any meeting where the PLEDGE was said and someone escorted anyone not saying it out of the room? Didn't think so. But on the other hand, those who would hinder the pledge from being said are HINDERING ALL WHO WOULD LIKE TO SAY IT. Think about it folks. It is only RIGHT to be given the opportunity at all government board meetings to be able to say the PLEDGE. If Roy Cooper doesn't think so, he does not desrve to be the Governor of North Carolina. I just timed it folks and it takes all of 15 seconds to say. But some will say it takes too much time!!!
wrote on 11/16/2019 at 5:36 am:
Thank you for sharing the phone #s of Governor Cooper. When you call him please tell him that Bill Butler said hello and we appreciate his strong choices for the Bladen County Board of Elections. Also ask him when the so-called preacher from Charlotte who masterminded the recent Congressional Election fraud scheme will be tried.
wrote on 11/15/2019 at 9:56 am:
Billy Butler, unless you know something that people who still live in Mother Bladen don't know; to our knowledge, no member of the Booard of Elections has been sued. To ask the State Board of Elections to take a look a something pertaining to a local county board is not a law suit. It is obvious that at least one member of the board may think so since when the county said no lawyer would be hired in regards to that matter, that something to the effect that sounds like a law suit coming. The same applies to the current situation with the Pledge of Allegiance being said before board meetings. This is not a law suit situation, it is an American and patriotic situation. Some folks have already alluded to it being a racist situation. It is not.
wrote on 11/15/2019 at 9:11 am:
To quote lifelong public servant and American Patriot George Kent, "You can't promote principled anti-corruption action without pissing off corrupt people."
wrote on 11/14/2019 at 10:59 pm:
From afar it seems that Governor Cooper appointed exactly the right people to the Bladen Elections Board. They have faced harassment and intimidation from day one. Folks should remember that Bladen County's reputation has been blemished by the actions of some in the recent past who seem to have had a warm and fuzzy relationship with the Board of Elections and access to information that was not to be disclosed. The new member(s) have been sued and now are being publicly called out and threatened with removal from their very important positions. Enough is enough, Bladen County has been embarrassed enough already. Bladen County is better than this !
wrote on 11/14/2019 at 10:18 pm:
I wish to apprentice while you amend your site, how can i subscribe for a blog web site? The account helped me a acceptable deal. I had been a little bit acquainted of this your broadcast provided bright clear idea
wrote on 11/14/2019 at 7:51 pm:
There is an American flag in the lobby of the Board of Elections building in Elizabethtown. Now, all it needs is four board of elections members to pledge allegiance to it at the beginning of each board meeting. Tomorrow's meeting would be a good time to start that tradition chairperson Mrs. Thompson.
Thank you Mr. Duckworth for your heartwarming comments.
Thank you Mr. Duckworth for your heartwarming comments.
wrote on 11/14/2019 at 10:21 am:
I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under GOD, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
I am so thankful that I was raised by true teachers who helped us learn this and had us say it every morning as well as say our prayers. I hear people talk all the time about how the school systems have gone down hill and the kids have no respect like they should.
Well, look no further that what has been allowed to be removed from our schools, the three P's.
Prayer, Pledge and Paddlings.
If in fact, the School Board doesn't say a Pledge, that's a shame, plain and simple.
We, as elected people, as well as those appointed people, should stand for both God and our country. We should have both Prayer and the Pledge at the beginning of each and every meeting and to not do so is a slap in the face to both GOD and our country including each person who has served in the military.
God bless the USA.
God bless North Carolina.
God bless Bladen County.
God bless us all.
I am so thankful that I was raised by true teachers who helped us learn this and had us say it every morning as well as say our prayers. I hear people talk all the time about how the school systems have gone down hill and the kids have no respect like they should.
Well, look no further that what has been allowed to be removed from our schools, the three P's.
Prayer, Pledge and Paddlings.
If in fact, the School Board doesn't say a Pledge, that's a shame, plain and simple.
We, as elected people, as well as those appointed people, should stand for both God and our country. We should have both Prayer and the Pledge at the beginning of each and every meeting and to not do so is a slap in the face to both GOD and our country including each person who has served in the military.
God bless the USA.
God bless North Carolina.
God bless Bladen County.
God bless us all.
wrote on 11/14/2019 at 8:47 am:
I have never suggested throwing out anything. If you feel good about reciting the pledge given its history, or even displaying a confederate flag in your front yard, I fully 100% uphold your right to do so under the 1st Amendment of the US Constitution.
That same constitutional amendment gives me the freedom not to do either one, and guarantees that I am legally free from any attempt from any governmental agency or legal consequence to force me to do so.
So no governmental board member is going to be removed from office because they don't want to recite an oath to a flag.
Our only consequence will be to listen to the complaints of people who like to complain. And I can assure you that we will give each and every one of those complaints every single bit of the respect and attention they deserve.
That same constitutional amendment gives me the freedom not to do either one, and guarantees that I am legally free from any attempt from any governmental agency or legal consequence to force me to do so.
So no governmental board member is going to be removed from office because they don't want to recite an oath to a flag.
Our only consequence will be to listen to the complaints of people who like to complain. And I can assure you that we will give each and every one of those complaints every single bit of the respect and attention they deserve.
wrote on 11/14/2019 at 7:56 am:
If we are going to throw out the Pledge of Allegiance because it was written by a racist. We just as well throw out the US Constitution, it was partially written by George Washington and James Madison, and according to the quick Google search I just did they owned and controlled hundreds of slaves when they died. You can't pick and choose. We can't change the past. We need to stop trying to correct the past and worry about correcting the NOW. I know racism exists today and I don't like it any more than a person of color likes it. But we can't keep stirring up the past and have any hope of fixing it. Start by teaching our children and youth respect. Respect for the Flag, respect for the Pledge of Allegiance, respect for their elders, and hopefully that will teach them to respect each other. If we teach them it is ok to disrespect our country , how can we expect them to respect each other. Be a part of the solution not a part of the problem. Lead by example.
wrote on 11/13/2019 at 9:03 pm:
No racism in Mr. Balch's pledge.
wrote on 11/13/2019 at 8:43 pm:
The pledge written by George Batch consisted of one sentence. “I give my heart and my hand to my country—one country, one language, one flag. “ Are you suggesting we recite this?
wrote on 11/13/2019 at 6:19 pm:
Thank you to the Elizabethtown Chapter of the DAR for their program this past week in recognition of veterans. They sure picked a good man to honor. Oliver Gause and his wife Ellen are good people and the program speaker was another good man, Mr. Larry Hammonds. Our country and county are better places to live because of Oliver, Larry and their families. Although neither of them still live in Bladenboro as far as I know; I am proud to say they were both raised in Bladenboro. God bless our veterans and their families, the DAR, and all people. Thanks to the Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church for providing the facilities for the meeting.
wrote on 11/13/2019 at 6:00 pm:
Bladen County residents, it is my hope and prayer as this issue about the pledge of allegiance to the American flag continues to be discussed; that each one who chooses to get involved in the discccussion will pay particular attention to what is being expressed. Already we have delflection from the subject at hand and as in most discussions to day, the race card is already being played.
First, and I quote, from the history of the pledge; "There did exist a previous version created by Captain George T. Balch, a "VETERAN" of the Civil War, who later became auditor of the New York Board of Education. Balch's pledge, which existed contemporaneously with the Bellamy version until the 1923 National Flag Conference". Also quotuing, "It was originally composed by Captain George Thatcher Balch, a Uion Army officer during the Civil War and later a teacher of patriotism in New York City Schools".
Notice, the original author of the pledge was a Union office in the Civil War. He may have been a racist but one would have to serious doubt it if he was figthing to "abolish slavery. How can anyone involved in this discussion question that Captain Blach penned the first pledge? To do so is to deny the history of the pledge. I submit to the citizens of Bladen County that there in not iota of racism in the Pledge of Allegiance. I also submit that there are people in Bladen County that will bring out racism to try to prove their point that is not true and thereby hoping to stir up the race issue in the black and white communities as well as all other communities. people tend to do this I do not know. When talking about racism, don't let us ever fool ourselves into believing that racism has been done away with or ever will be done away with; that time is reserved for a place called heaven. But I will attest to the fact that Monday as I attended the the Veterans Day ceremonies, veterans of all hues, statues, and sexes met for one purpose; to recognize ALL veterans of all races. And I could be mistaken, but I believe they ALL stood, came to attention, and saluted the flags especially the American flag. Veterans do no serve under several flags but under one flag, the flag of the United States of American. A person who chooses to not to salute our flag and chooses not to pledge allegiance to the American flag, as far as I m concerned, they have chosen NOT RO BE AN AMERICAN. It is paramount to a person calling themselves a Christian and yet NOT praying, Not reading or believing the Bible, Not attending a house of worship, Not helping their fellow man, and not being the very best citizen of their nation that they can be. Lastly for now, quit trying to decide for other races what they think, they have that God given ability; each one of us do, it is called freedom of the will or the right to choose. God bless folks as they continue to debate this issue and God bless the boards of our county government. By the way, there is room for the flags ,North Carolina and United States of America. God grant us to get past this issue and begin all of our county board meetings with prayer and the pledge of allegiance to the American flag.
First, and I quote, from the history of the pledge; "There did exist a previous version created by Captain George T. Balch, a "VETERAN" of the Civil War, who later became auditor of the New York Board of Education. Balch's pledge, which existed contemporaneously with the Bellamy version until the 1923 National Flag Conference". Also quotuing, "It was originally composed by Captain George Thatcher Balch, a Uion Army officer during the Civil War and later a teacher of patriotism in New York City Schools".
Notice, the original author of the pledge was a Union office in the Civil War. He may have been a racist but one would have to serious doubt it if he was figthing to "abolish slavery. How can anyone involved in this discussion question that Captain Blach penned the first pledge? To do so is to deny the history of the pledge. I submit to the citizens of Bladen County that there in not iota of racism in the Pledge of Allegiance. I also submit that there are people in Bladen County that will bring out racism to try to prove their point that is not true and thereby hoping to stir up the race issue in the black and white communities as well as all other communities. people tend to do this I do not know. When talking about racism, don't let us ever fool ourselves into believing that racism has been done away with or ever will be done away with; that time is reserved for a place called heaven. But I will attest to the fact that Monday as I attended the the Veterans Day ceremonies, veterans of all hues, statues, and sexes met for one purpose; to recognize ALL veterans of all races. And I could be mistaken, but I believe they ALL stood, came to attention, and saluted the flags especially the American flag. Veterans do no serve under several flags but under one flag, the flag of the United States of American. A person who chooses to not to salute our flag and chooses not to pledge allegiance to the American flag, as far as I m concerned, they have chosen NOT RO BE AN AMERICAN. It is paramount to a person calling themselves a Christian and yet NOT praying, Not reading or believing the Bible, Not attending a house of worship, Not helping their fellow man, and not being the very best citizen of their nation that they can be. Lastly for now, quit trying to decide for other races what they think, they have that God given ability; each one of us do, it is called freedom of the will or the right to choose. God bless folks as they continue to debate this issue and God bless the boards of our county government. By the way, there is room for the flags ,North Carolina and United States of America. God grant us to get past this issue and begin all of our county board meetings with prayer and the pledge of allegiance to the American flag.
wrote on 11/13/2019 at 3:30 pm:
And anyone who thinks my personal stance against racism and election fraud makes me unfit to serve on the the board of elections needs to worry more about their own lack of integrity more than they worry about mine.
wrote on 11/13/2019 at 3:28 pm:
A bit about the history of the Pledge of Allegiance: The original pledge was written in 1891 by a defrocked Baptist preacher, 35-year-old Francis Bellamy. The original pledge was just 23 words: “I pledge allegiance to my Flag and to the Republic for which it stands — one Nation indivisible — with liberty and justice for all.”
What makes it controversial is Bellamy's motives for writing it. He said his pledge was designed to define "true Americanism” and explicitly stated his desire to omit "immigrants from races which we cannot assimilate without a lowering of our racial standard.” Bellamy had a specific dislike for Catholics and Jews, whom he considered to be "not fully white". Rather than reflecting imagined American values, Bellamy’s Pledge of Allegiance was designed as an instrument of white nationalism.
Because of the nativist and xenophobic origins of the Pledge of Allegiance, many Americans choose not to recite it, and the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that any attempt to require participation in its recitation is unconstitutional.
In addition, previous boards of elections in a Bladen County also did not recite the pledge, nor does the Bladen County Board of Education unless it has recently started.
Anyone can rotely recite a pledge or write an editorial claiming that to do so makes one "patriotic". That opinion is no more valid than the opinions of millions of Americans who choose not to recite an oath written by a white supremacist.
And yes, white supremacy is a "race issue" , a fact that denying or ignoring will not change.
What makes it controversial is Bellamy's motives for writing it. He said his pledge was designed to define "true Americanism” and explicitly stated his desire to omit "immigrants from races which we cannot assimilate without a lowering of our racial standard.” Bellamy had a specific dislike for Catholics and Jews, whom he considered to be "not fully white". Rather than reflecting imagined American values, Bellamy’s Pledge of Allegiance was designed as an instrument of white nationalism.
Because of the nativist and xenophobic origins of the Pledge of Allegiance, many Americans choose not to recite it, and the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that any attempt to require participation in its recitation is unconstitutional.
In addition, previous boards of elections in a Bladen County also did not recite the pledge, nor does the Bladen County Board of Education unless it has recently started.
Anyone can rotely recite a pledge or write an editorial claiming that to do so makes one "patriotic". That opinion is no more valid than the opinions of millions of Americans who choose not to recite an oath written by a white supremacist.
And yes, white supremacy is a "race issue" , a fact that denying or ignoring will not change.
wrote on 11/13/2019 at 11:31 am:
I think that you will find that there are a large and growing number of people of color who know and understand the white supremacist history of the author of the pledge. To insist that they recite this pledge will only cause resistance. Objections to reciting this pledge is not based on objections to our flag nor on disrespect for our military.
wrote on 11/12/2019 at 10:29 pm:
And I quote, "I have learned my lesson". Personally, I knew it was too good to be true.
If memory serves me correct, the question of the Pledge of Allegiance being said at Boe meetings was introduced by me. Having attended numerous County Commissioner meetings in the past, I thought it odd that the Board of Elections meetings were not preceeded by the Pledge to the flag. Another reason that I thought it odd, and it offended, was that I answered my country's call to serve in the United States Army for one the reasons I served, that all Americans would have the privilege to Pledge allegiance to our flag.
Our flag unfurled is one of the most beautiful sights on the face of this earth. I have seen it personaly here in our beloved land(forty or so of the states), in Canada, in Japan, in Mexico, in South Vietnam, in Germany; and I will testify that every time I see it, my sould within me is stirred. Yesterday, I was prviliged to behold it unfurled in two Veterans Day ceremonies and my sould was stirred within me again. I will never tire of its beautiful sight as long as I have my right mind. While at BCC for their ceremony yesterday, there were a bunch of small American Flags out in front of the auditorium where the ceremony was held; as I departed the building, I asked one of the ladies if I could have two of the flags. On my way home, I dropped by the church I attend and placed the flags one my brothers grave who served in the Army and one on a dear departed comrades grave. Why? Because I have the utmost respect for the flag that was on a flagpole at the entrance to the base camp from which my unit operated in Vietnam. As I go over to E-town my soul is stirred within me when I go by Bladen Memorial Burial Gardens. My soul was stirred within me to construct a flag pole in my ,front yard and you guessed it; THERE IS AN AMERICAN FLAG AT THE TOP OF IT. You see, my soul is stirred within me every day by the sight of our beloved flag.
I could use some words that aren't proper for this venue; it reminds me of a question our pastor uses at the end of a lot of our church services, "is everyone in love with Jesus?" and he follows that with "is there anyone mad with or hates anyone?" to which I often respond, "only hate or am mad with the devil."
We have a lot of freedoms that many members of our armed forces have sacrificed their lives to secure. God have mercy on anyone that would belittle our flag or the pledge to it. To do so by any citizen of our great nation especially a member of a board(any board) of Mother Bladen is a slap in the face of ever Veteran that was recognized yesterday, every Mother of every Veteran that was recognized yesterday, every brother sister, every husband, wife, child, and every American that recognized those Veterans yesterday.
Again, to quote, "I have learned my lesson"; indeed the person who made this statement has not learned their lesson and my personal opinion is that every Veteran in Bladen County and indeed the whole nation is mad with that individual.
Blame the Governor of North Carolina for he is the one who approved this person to serve on the BOE; in reality he is the one who should get this person removed from Bladen County's Board of Election.
If memory serves me correct, the question of the Pledge of Allegiance being said at Boe meetings was introduced by me. Having attended numerous County Commissioner meetings in the past, I thought it odd that the Board of Elections meetings were not preceeded by the Pledge to the flag. Another reason that I thought it odd, and it offended, was that I answered my country's call to serve in the United States Army for one the reasons I served, that all Americans would have the privilege to Pledge allegiance to our flag.
Our flag unfurled is one of the most beautiful sights on the face of this earth. I have seen it personaly here in our beloved land(forty or so of the states), in Canada, in Japan, in Mexico, in South Vietnam, in Germany; and I will testify that every time I see it, my sould within me is stirred. Yesterday, I was prviliged to behold it unfurled in two Veterans Day ceremonies and my sould was stirred within me again. I will never tire of its beautiful sight as long as I have my right mind. While at BCC for their ceremony yesterday, there were a bunch of small American Flags out in front of the auditorium where the ceremony was held; as I departed the building, I asked one of the ladies if I could have two of the flags. On my way home, I dropped by the church I attend and placed the flags one my brothers grave who served in the Army and one on a dear departed comrades grave. Why? Because I have the utmost respect for the flag that was on a flagpole at the entrance to the base camp from which my unit operated in Vietnam. As I go over to E-town my soul is stirred within me when I go by Bladen Memorial Burial Gardens. My soul was stirred within me to construct a flag pole in my ,front yard and you guessed it; THERE IS AN AMERICAN FLAG AT THE TOP OF IT. You see, my soul is stirred within me every day by the sight of our beloved flag.
I could use some words that aren't proper for this venue; it reminds me of a question our pastor uses at the end of a lot of our church services, "is everyone in love with Jesus?" and he follows that with "is there anyone mad with or hates anyone?" to which I often respond, "only hate or am mad with the devil."
We have a lot of freedoms that many members of our armed forces have sacrificed their lives to secure. God have mercy on anyone that would belittle our flag or the pledge to it. To do so by any citizen of our great nation especially a member of a board(any board) of Mother Bladen is a slap in the face of ever Veteran that was recognized yesterday, every Mother of every Veteran that was recognized yesterday, every brother sister, every husband, wife, child, and every American that recognized those Veterans yesterday.
Again, to quote, "I have learned my lesson"; indeed the person who made this statement has not learned their lesson and my personal opinion is that every Veteran in Bladen County and indeed the whole nation is mad with that individual.
Blame the Governor of North Carolina for he is the one who approved this person to serve on the BOE; in reality he is the one who should get this person removed from Bladen County's Board of Election.
wrote on 11/12/2019 at 10:12 pm:
Charlotte, your column about the 2 Board of Elections Members was eye opening. I must ask, what do you think about A President who has embarrassed Americans and tarnished Our Reputation as an honest Country by actually bribing the very Country that we were trying to rid of corruption?
wrote on 11/12/2019 at 6:41 pm:
I am a frequent Bladen Online reader but very seldom read the comments in the guestbook section. Today was one of the rare times that I clicked over and read some of the commits and was appalled by the comments made by Ms. Patsy Sheppard below. I normally do not comment and keep my opinions to myself but my conscience would not allow my feelings to go unspoken. First I wanted to make it abundantly clear that even though our last names are the same (spelled differently, thank goodness) our opinions are not the same. I do not want anyone who knows me or may meet me later, to associate the name Shepherd with such racist and unpatriotic comments. But the main reason for my comments would be to come to the defense of Ms. Smith. Ms. Sheppard obviously does not know Ms. Smith or she would know what an upstanding member of our community she is. I have known the Smith family for several years and have had the privilege of volunteering with her husband and have personally witnessed them sacrifice their time and money to do nothing but try to better their community. You will not find a family that cares more for the children and youth of our community. It doesn’t matter to the Smith’s if you are white, black, green or yellow, they care about people and their community. The comments made by Ms. Sheppard, an official of the Board of Elections are the very reason I rarely vote. How can anyone have confidence in an election when the fair and impartial people who are charged with making sure an election is fair and impartial is on a public forum slinging out racist comments about people in our community. It is time that the citizens of Bladen County demand better. Whether you are Black, White, Hispanic, whatever your race, your vote should count and it is the job of the Board of Elections to be fair and impartial. How can a voter have confidence in an election if the Board of Elections are not held to a higher standard. Ms. Smith’s opinions expressed in her article had nothing to do with race but Ms. Sheppard has tried to make this a race issue. I personally do not see where The Pledge of Allegiance has anything to do with racism. The Pledge of Allegiance may have been written by a white supremacist in 1891 but the pledge that I said every day in elementary school says nothing about race but says liberty and justice for all. The Pledge of Allegiance has not been a race issue for 120 years but now in 2019 it is an oath to racist ideology. BLADEN COUNTY DEMAND BETTER.
wrote on 11/12/2019 at 4:27 pm:
To quote Bellamy..... ""Where all classes of society merge insensibly into one another every alien immigrant of inferior race may bring corruption to the stock. There are races more or less akin to our own whom we may admit freely and get nothing but advantage by the infusion of their wholesome blood. But there are other races, which we cannot assimilate without lowering our racial standard, which should be as sacred to us as the sanctity of our homes.""
wrote on 11/12/2019 at 3:06 pm:
Bellamy was also a leading Socialist in his day. His motivation for writing the Pledge seemed to be as a means to sell flags to schools. His original salute to the flag used a NAZI like salute.
wrote on 11/12/2019 at 8:57 am:
The Pledge of Allegiance was written in 1891 by a Baptist white supremacist named Francis Bellamy and designed as an oath to his racist ideology.
Apparently, the 'Charlotte Smith Test of Patriotism' requires that everyone publicly stand, place their hand over their heart, and recite a white supremacist's oath to gain her seal of approval.
If any Bladen County Board of Elections member or anyone at our meetings wants to recite that pledge, I fully support their right to do so, and invite Ms. Smith to personally lead it. She can even wave her confederate flag while doing so if it makes her happy.
Apparently, the 'Charlotte Smith Test of Patriotism' requires that everyone publicly stand, place their hand over their heart, and recite a white supremacist's oath to gain her seal of approval.
If any Bladen County Board of Elections member or anyone at our meetings wants to recite that pledge, I fully support their right to do so, and invite Ms. Smith to personally lead it. She can even wave her confederate flag while doing so if it makes her happy.
wrote on 11/11/2019 at 9:15 pm:
Thank you to the folks who organized the veterans programs at BCC and Bladenboro Historical Building today. It was good to see veterans from across Mother Bladen stand in honor and praise of all veterans. Both events were well attended and both programs were carried out very well. At the end of the day, it was off to Lumberton for a meal provided by Golden Corral Restaurant. A great day to be a veteran in Southeastern North Carolina and Mother Bladen in particular. Of course, every day is a good day for veterans. God's benefits and blessings renew every morning. Hope everyone had a great Veterans Day.
wrote on 11/09/2019 at 2:09 pm:
Thank you to Bladen-on-line for running the article on Larry Hammonds and thank you and a salute to Larry and his family for their dedication to the good that our nation has to offer. If more Americans could show such an exemplary life our nation would be in greater shape than it is. Larry has done an outstanding job of being a great patriot and well as others from Mother Bladen who have done the same. God bless our veterans for they are all patriots.
wrote on 11/08/2019 at 11:06 pm:
Congratulations to all the young scholars making all the recognition list in our schools. Continue the great work.
wrote on 11/08/2019 at 12:16 pm:
Today is the distribution day for the 6th Annual Roger`s Wish Project at the Bladen County Library on South Cypress Street in Elizabethtown.
Roger`s Wish is named after it`s founder,Roger Theodore Grunder, who lost his life in a car accident on August 30, 2013. Roger had just began collecting blankets for the drive about 3 weeks before losing his life. Roger lived as a homeless person on and off for the last 19 years of his life.He was well known around Elizabethtown for his thoughtfulness toward others and for his sense of humor,as well. Roger was often seen at the Bladen Crisis Thrift Shop where he worked as a volunteer. He also frequented the Bladen Journal office and the library where he loved visiting with friends.
Roger`s Wish was garnered with a second place award for best community project by a newspaper in a statewide competition back in 2014. Roger was memorialized earlier in the same year in the library gardens with a plaque and a rosemary plant by Rhea Hebert and this author. During 2015 the project received news coverage from both WWAY and WECT television stations out of Wilmington.
Roger`s Wish collected and distributed nearly 1,000 blankets and sleeping bags during it`s first 5 years.Some of the donations came from as far away as Florida and New York and New Jersey.
My sincere gratitude goes out to everyone who donated items this year to help the needy of the area to help stay warm. May God bless all of you.
Roger`s Wish is named after it`s founder,Roger Theodore Grunder, who lost his life in a car accident on August 30, 2013. Roger had just began collecting blankets for the drive about 3 weeks before losing his life. Roger lived as a homeless person on and off for the last 19 years of his life.He was well known around Elizabethtown for his thoughtfulness toward others and for his sense of humor,as well. Roger was often seen at the Bladen Crisis Thrift Shop where he worked as a volunteer. He also frequented the Bladen Journal office and the library where he loved visiting with friends.
Roger`s Wish was garnered with a second place award for best community project by a newspaper in a statewide competition back in 2014. Roger was memorialized earlier in the same year in the library gardens with a plaque and a rosemary plant by Rhea Hebert and this author. During 2015 the project received news coverage from both WWAY and WECT television stations out of Wilmington.
Roger`s Wish collected and distributed nearly 1,000 blankets and sleeping bags during it`s first 5 years.Some of the donations came from as far away as Florida and New York and New Jersey.
My sincere gratitude goes out to everyone who donated items this year to help the needy of the area to help stay warm. May God bless all of you.
wrote on 11/08/2019 at 9:27 am:
Had a chance to go up to Pinecrest High School in Pinehurst, NC yesterday for a Veterans Day ceremony at the invite of my daughter the school principal, Mrs. Stefanie Phillips. It was a most impressive ceremony with two of the highlights being a flag folding ceremony by the school ROTC in memory of a local veteran who had passed away during the last year; the flag was presented to the deceased veterans family. The second impressive part of the ceremony was the recognition of the spouses and children of veterans who were are home during the veterans tour of duty
in war zones or otherwise keeping the home fires burning.
It is sort of hard to go anywhere in NC and other places and not run into someone who had Mother Bladen in their family history. Yesterday was no different. The wife and I had the distinct pleasure to be seated at the table with Will "WL" Pait and his wife, Joyce. Will grew up in the Oak Grove Community out from Bladenboro and Joyce grew up in the Littlefield area of Robeson County. After Will's career with CP&L, they retired in the Pinehurst/ Southern Pines. They are fine people and their two sons graduated from Pinecrest High School. It was so good to see them again and enjoy the Pinehurst area for a while. Oh, by the way, Will is a veteran of the Air Force. Thank God for veterans and their service for and too our beloved country. Hope to be able to make the ceremony at Bladenboro and over at BCC. Happy Veterans Day to all veterans as we celebrate their day this weekend. A very worthy celebration; you are saluted.
in war zones or otherwise keeping the home fires burning.
It is sort of hard to go anywhere in NC and other places and not run into someone who had Mother Bladen in their family history. Yesterday was no different. The wife and I had the distinct pleasure to be seated at the table with Will "WL" Pait and his wife, Joyce. Will grew up in the Oak Grove Community out from Bladenboro and Joyce grew up in the Littlefield area of Robeson County. After Will's career with CP&L, they retired in the Pinehurst/ Southern Pines. They are fine people and their two sons graduated from Pinecrest High School. It was so good to see them again and enjoy the Pinehurst area for a while. Oh, by the way, Will is a veteran of the Air Force. Thank God for veterans and their service for and too our beloved country. Hope to be able to make the ceremony at Bladenboro and over at BCC. Happy Veterans Day to all veterans as we celebrate their day this weekend. A very worthy celebration; you are saluted.
wrote on 11/06/2019 at 12:05 pm:
The voters have spoken and there were winners and losers as there are in all elections. Only time will tell how the winners will do and for the losers who have served, thank you. To those who lost and were in the race for the first time; there is always a second try if you so chose.
One vote that really surprised me was the one in Bladenboro about beer and wine. It is just about a clean sweep in our beloved Mother Bladen as far as towns with beer and wine. There aren't many folks left who remember the times years ago when Bladenboro had liquor in the town. Word has it that there were some really "rowdy" times, especially on Saturday nights when liquor was being consumed. My prayer is that it will not come to that again. I thank the town board of commissioners for being against this issue.
It really is a shame that right at 25% of the towns voters have brought alcohol to the town. Based on figures that I can ascertain; there are about 1288 voters in Bladenboro; about 300 of them voted for this issue. There is no doubt that the town is in need of more retailers. Would it not be ironic if every vacant building in town would be filled with an alcohol sales outlet.
One doesn't see much about the evils of alcohol anymore and what it can do to individuals and families and I will not belabor that point here. However, I'd like to leave you with a quote from God's Holy word and may He have mercy on our beloved town. Hosea chapter 8 verse 7, "For they have sown the wind 'light wind', and they shall reap the whirlwind 'hurricane,,,'; we do know about hurricanes, don't we?
Thank you to the town voters who voted against this evil that has come to the town. The question has to be asked, where were the other 750 or so voters that did not vote?
One vote that really surprised me was the one in Bladenboro about beer and wine. It is just about a clean sweep in our beloved Mother Bladen as far as towns with beer and wine. There aren't many folks left who remember the times years ago when Bladenboro had liquor in the town. Word has it that there were some really "rowdy" times, especially on Saturday nights when liquor was being consumed. My prayer is that it will not come to that again. I thank the town board of commissioners for being against this issue.
It really is a shame that right at 25% of the towns voters have brought alcohol to the town. Based on figures that I can ascertain; there are about 1288 voters in Bladenboro; about 300 of them voted for this issue. There is no doubt that the town is in need of more retailers. Would it not be ironic if every vacant building in town would be filled with an alcohol sales outlet.
One doesn't see much about the evils of alcohol anymore and what it can do to individuals and families and I will not belabor that point here. However, I'd like to leave you with a quote from God's Holy word and may He have mercy on our beloved town. Hosea chapter 8 verse 7, "For they have sown the wind 'light wind', and they shall reap the whirlwind 'hurricane,,,'; we do know about hurricanes, don't we?
Thank you to the town voters who voted against this evil that has come to the town. The question has to be asked, where were the other 750 or so voters that did not vote?
wrote on 11/04/2019 at 12:10 pm:
I want to express my gratitude to everyone who donated to this year`s Roger`s Wish Project. I recently received word from Roger`s sister,Mariea Bryant,that approximately 50 blankets were donated by the public,as well as some winter coats. They plan to distribute the coats to needy children at an upcoming event that will soon take place at East Arcadia. The blanket distribution will take place on Friday November 8 at the Bladen County Library on Cypress Street in Elizabethtown.
This annual project is named after it`s founder, Roger Theodore Grunder,who lost his life in an accident on August 30 2013 just weeks after starting the collection drive........
This annual project is named after it`s founder, Roger Theodore Grunder,who lost his life in an accident on August 30 2013 just weeks after starting the collection drive........
wrote on 10/28/2019 at 9:36 pm:
Back in the 1940's a young man by the name of Paul Vernon Hewett along with his Dad and Mother moved to Bladen County from Brunswick County. Don't know what kind of shape Bladen County was in in the 1040's, but there is one thing for sure Bladen County is a much better place today because Paul V Hewett lived until his passing on October 22.
He grew into manhood, took Pauline Russ as his bride, became a Christian, became a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, fathered four children (Linda, Laura, Patsy, and Danny), pastored three churches here in Bladen County one in Columbus County, and one in Robeson County. He also became a farmer, did land surveying, became a hunter, of which bear hunting was the one he loved best. But the greatest love of his life was his love for Jesus Christ as his personal Savior and his love for Mrs. Pauline. He has done and experienced so many thing in his 86 years on the face of this earth; at the end of each of our lives if it can be said of us that we left Bladen County in better shape than we found it, then we will have measured up to what Rev. Paul Vernon Hewett did. Thank you all the many friends that have stood by the family during this most trying of life's circumstances. It was indeed a blessing to be one of his son in laws. Those who know the worth of prayer; please keep the family in your prayers.
He was so proud of his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.
He grew into manhood, took Pauline Russ as his bride, became a Christian, became a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, fathered four children (Linda, Laura, Patsy, and Danny), pastored three churches here in Bladen County one in Columbus County, and one in Robeson County. He also became a farmer, did land surveying, became a hunter, of which bear hunting was the one he loved best. But the greatest love of his life was his love for Jesus Christ as his personal Savior and his love for Mrs. Pauline. He has done and experienced so many thing in his 86 years on the face of this earth; at the end of each of our lives if it can be said of us that we left Bladen County in better shape than we found it, then we will have measured up to what Rev. Paul Vernon Hewett did. Thank you all the many friends that have stood by the family during this most trying of life's circumstances. It was indeed a blessing to be one of his son in laws. Those who know the worth of prayer; please keep the family in your prayers.
He was so proud of his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.
wrote on 10/23/2019 at 5:47 pm:
I am attempting to find information regarding an ancestor from Bladen County. His name is John Blanks (1755) who fought in the American Revolutionary War.
Thank you!
Thank you!
wrote on 10/23/2019 at 10:05 am:
Congratulations to Mr. Chris Williams on being approved as the new director of the Bladen County Board of Elections.
PS Excuse the triple posting on my last comment. My clicker must have gotten stuck.
PS Excuse the triple posting on my last comment. My clicker must have gotten stuck.
wrote on 10/21/2019 at 10:59 am:
REVIVAL-REVIVAL-REVIVAL-REVIVAL
OAK GROVE ORIGINAL FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH, BLADENBORO, NC.
Starting tonight 10-21-19 thru Friday night at 7:30 each evening. Guest evangelist Rev. Jimmy McNeil pastor of Mt. Calvary Original Free Will Baptist Church. Pastor Rev. James H Nobles and the congregation invite everyone to attend. Come worship with us.
OAK GROVE ORIGINAL FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH, BLADENBORO, NC.
Starting tonight 10-21-19 thru Friday night at 7:30 each evening. Guest evangelist Rev. Jimmy McNeil pastor of Mt. Calvary Original Free Will Baptist Church. Pastor Rev. James H Nobles and the congregation invite everyone to attend. Come worship with us.
wrote on 10/21/2019 at 10:59 am:
REVIVAL-REVIVAL-REVIVAL-REVIVAL
OAK GROVE ORIGINAL FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH, BLADENBORO, NC.
Starting tonight 10-21-19 thru Friday night at 7:30 each evening. Guest evangelist Rev. Jimmy McNeil pastor of Mt. Calvary Original Free Will Baptist Church. Pastor Rev. James H Nobles and the congregation invite everyone to attend. Come worship with us.
OAK GROVE ORIGINAL FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH, BLADENBORO, NC.
Starting tonight 10-21-19 thru Friday night at 7:30 each evening. Guest evangelist Rev. Jimmy McNeil pastor of Mt. Calvary Original Free Will Baptist Church. Pastor Rev. James H Nobles and the congregation invite everyone to attend. Come worship with us.
wrote on 10/21/2019 at 10:59 am:
REVIVAL-REVIVAL-REVIVAL-REVIVAL
OAK GROVE ORIGINAL FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH, BLADENBORO, NC.
Starting tonight 10-21-19 thru Friday night at 7:30 each evening. Guest evangelist Rev. Jimmy McNeil pastor of Mt. Calvary Original Free Will Baptist Church. Pastor Rev. James H Nobles and the congregation invite everyone to attend. Come worship with us.
OAK GROVE ORIGINAL FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH, BLADENBORO, NC.
Starting tonight 10-21-19 thru Friday night at 7:30 each evening. Guest evangelist Rev. Jimmy McNeil pastor of Mt. Calvary Original Free Will Baptist Church. Pastor Rev. James H Nobles and the congregation invite everyone to attend. Come worship with us.
wrote on 10/17/2019 at 1:10 pm:
Jefferson Weaver .... Absolutely Perfect!! Great story.
wrote on 10/10/2019 at 2:45 pm:
The 6th Annual Roger`s Project is ongoing now through October 18th at the Bladen County Library on Cypress Street. Bring your donations of blankets and sleeping bags to help keep the needy and homeless warm this coming winter.
Roger`s Wish started back in 2013 by the late Roger Theodore Grunder along with W. Curt Vincent at the Bladen Journal. After Roger lost his life in a car accident in the industrial park area just weeks after starting the collection drive,the newspaper decided to keep the drive going in his memory.
Roger`s Wish earned the Bladen Journal a second place award for best community project by a newspaper in a statewide contest following it`s second year in 2014.
Roger was memorialized with a rosemary and plaque bearing his name in the Bladen County Library gardens in 2014.
During the first 5 years of the expanding community project,Roger`s Wish collected nearly 1,000 donations. Both WWAY news and WECT news out of Wilmington covered the project in 2015.
Being involved with the annual project has been a most rewarding experience for me. Roger left us at the age of 39,but he is strongly remembered by many of us for his kind heart in helping others around him.
The annual Roger`s Wish Project is a nice way for us to keep his memory alive,while carrying a mission that he was so proud of at the same time.
God bless all who donate to Roger`s Wish.
Roger`s Wish started back in 2013 by the late Roger Theodore Grunder along with W. Curt Vincent at the Bladen Journal. After Roger lost his life in a car accident in the industrial park area just weeks after starting the collection drive,the newspaper decided to keep the drive going in his memory.
Roger`s Wish earned the Bladen Journal a second place award for best community project by a newspaper in a statewide contest following it`s second year in 2014.
Roger was memorialized with a rosemary and plaque bearing his name in the Bladen County Library gardens in 2014.
During the first 5 years of the expanding community project,Roger`s Wish collected nearly 1,000 donations. Both WWAY news and WECT news out of Wilmington covered the project in 2015.
Being involved with the annual project has been a most rewarding experience for me. Roger left us at the age of 39,but he is strongly remembered by many of us for his kind heart in helping others around him.
The annual Roger`s Wish Project is a nice way for us to keep his memory alive,while carrying a mission that he was so proud of at the same time.
God bless all who donate to Roger`s Wish.
wrote on 10/10/2019 at 2:28 pm:
We have many businesses in Mother Bladen that do a fantastic job of taking care of the needs of their customers. The particular business in most cases has the entire family for a client. So many decisions having to be made and so many things having to be taken care of. Of course, most businesses are known by the quality of people that work for them and with them. When it comes to taking care of a families business, I can't think of a Bladen business that does what they do any better than Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home and Crematorium. Congratulations to Mrs. Linda and her staff (present and past) for being the best.
wrote on 10/08/2019 at 9:43 pm:
One of our first responders has fallen. Our hearts have been touched. God bless her family and her fellow first responders.
wrote on 10/07/2019 at 3:21 pm:
Obviously 1950 plus 50 doesn't add up to celebrating 50 years out of high school. My wife's class of 1969 celebrated being out of high school 50 years Saturday night.
wrote on 10/06/2019 at 9:07 pm:
What a great yesterday. Started off with the John & Berry Hester Family Reunion. People from Florida, South Carolina, and all over North Carolina attended; from 3 to 4 years of age up into the eighties. The dinner was excellent(thanks to Wilma Storms and her helpers). The fellowship was just great. So good to see this section of the Hester clan come together again.
Second, my wife's high school class held their 50th year reunion. It was so good to see her rejoice with her classmates. One thing that was of greatest interest to me was one of her classmates talk about her battle with sickness and her band PRAYER WARRIORS that had helped her though it. God bless you Ellen your husband Chuck as you continue the fight. It was an evening that won't soon be forgotten. God's speed to each member of the Elizabethtown High School of 1950, a group of good people.
Second, my wife's high school class held their 50th year reunion. It was so good to see her rejoice with her classmates. One thing that was of greatest interest to me was one of her classmates talk about her battle with sickness and her band PRAYER WARRIORS that had helped her though it. God bless you Ellen your husband Chuck as you continue the fight. It was an evening that won't soon be forgotten. God's speed to each member of the Elizabethtown High School of 1950, a group of good people.
wrote on 10/06/2019 at 9:07 pm:
What a great yesterday. Started off with the John & Berry Hester Family Reunion. People from Florida, South Carolina, and all over North Carolina attended; from 3 to 4 years of age up into the eighties. The dinner was excellent(thanks to Wilma Storms and her helpers). The fellowship was just great. So good to see this section of the Hester clan come together again.
Second, my wife's high school class held their 50th year reunion. It was so good to see her rejoice with her classmates. One thing that was of greatest interest to me was one of her classmates talk about her battle with sickness and her band PRAYER WARRIORS that had helped her though it. God bless you Ellen your husband Chuck as you continue the fight. It was an evening that won't soon be forgotten. God's speed to each member of the Elizabethtown High School of 1950, a group of good people.
Second, my wife's high school class held their 50th year reunion. It was so good to see her rejoice with her classmates. One thing that was of greatest interest to me was one of her classmates talk about her battle with sickness and her band PRAYER WARRIORS that had helped her though it. God bless you Ellen your husband Chuck as you continue the fight. It was an evening that won't soon be forgotten. God's speed to each member of the Elizabethtown High School of 1950, a group of good people.
wrote on 10/05/2019 at 12:27 pm:
Bring your donations of blankets and sleeping bags to the Bladen County Library through October 18th for the 6th Annual Roger`s Wish Project . Distribution day will be on November 8th at the library.
This annual project is in memory of it`s founder,the late Roger Theodore Grunder of Elizabethtown. Roger lost his life in a car accident on August 30th 2013 just weeks after starting his blanket drive.
This annual project is in memory of it`s founder,the late Roger Theodore Grunder of Elizabethtown. Roger lost his life in a car accident on August 30th 2013 just weeks after starting his blanket drive.
wrote on 10/04/2019 at 7:09 pm:
How about the jobs figures that came out today? President Trump is having a great effect upon the economy of our country. Trump/Pence in 2020.
wrote on 10/04/2019 at 1:39 pm:
Kudos to Jefferson Weaver for an excellent article on little Buddy ... gone but not forgotten!
wrote on 10/04/2019 at 11:42 am:
Billy, You may be beginning to reveal what has happened to you since you left the friendly confines of Bladenboro and moved up to the "big time" Charlotte, NC area. People are saved regardless of where their salvation takes place by the same process. It is not the place, but the BLOOD of Jesus Christ and the GRACE of God, and the WORD of God. Once knew a man who testified that he was saved out in a field plowing behind a single wing plow and an old mule. By the way, regardless of where a man finds himself; he is "in prison" until he receives SALVATION. You nor I nor anyone else will eve live long enough to see our beloved President go to prison; remember Billy, even if this crazy idea the democrats have cooked up comes to fruition, the trial must be held in the Senate of the United States and being up on political matters as you are; I'm sure you are aware that REPUBLICANS hold a majority in that political body.
By the way, in times past you commented favorably on some things Mr. Robert Hester has posted on this site in his "Thoughts While Shaving" column. You might want to read his column for today, believe he entered something about praying for our leaders. Looks like Robert has not forgot his upbringing in the same church you were brought up in; nor its teachings about praying for our leaders.
By the way, in times past you commented favorably on some things Mr. Robert Hester has posted on this site in his "Thoughts While Shaving" column. You might want to read his column for today, believe he entered something about praying for our leaders. Looks like Robert has not forgot his upbringing in the same church you were brought up in; nor its teachings about praying for our leaders.
wrote on 10/04/2019 at 12:10 am:
GC, there is hope for Trump still. I hear that Prison brings more people to Christ than Preachers.
wrote on 10/03/2019 at 4:38 pm:
Billy, I know as you were growing up you were taught to show respect and honor toward your elders. Show some respect for our President. He is President Trump or Mr. Trump for those younger than his age and because of his esteem position as President of our country. If you believe the President needs an exorcism, then that would be like me saying all democrats need an exorcism. Thank God there are a few good ones left who do not believe in abortion, open borders, higher taxes, and all the other anti-American things being espoused out of Washington, DC by the democrat leaders.
wrote on 10/02/2019 at 2:17 pm:
Billy, Sorry about the post concerning the John & Berry Hester Family Reunion. Your maternal grandmother Sally Hester Pait is a child of Berry Hester not a grandchild of his.
Still, be sure and remember President Trump and all government officials when you pray.
Still, be sure and remember President Trump and all government officials when you pray.
wrote on 10/02/2019 at 2:07 pm:
GC, Trump is showing his true self. He needs an exorcism, then prayer.
wrote on 10/02/2019 at 9:20 am:
Billy, Your post about President Trump shows just how far down the Biblical ladder democrat thinking people have sunk. Who am I or who are you to state that our President doesn't need prayer; beg to disagree with you. Sure hope that people who know the worth of prayer certainly do not follow your anti Bible stance. Why do you think both Houses of Congress all the way down to the Bladen County Board of Commissioners begin their meetings with prayer? When was the last time you humbled your heart and bent your knee before almighty God in prayer for the leaders of our nation, states, and counties? Try it, you'll like it. By the way; President Donald J Trump is the highest ranking political leader in our nation. Again, pray for him.
On another subject of great importance. The JOHN & BERRY HESTER families will be getting together at OAK GROVE ORIGINAL FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH FELLOWSHIP hall this coming Saturday, October 5, 2019 at 1PM for their family reunion. All those with either of these two families in their history are cordially invited to attend. Billy, this includes you and all your family; remember, your maternal grandmother Sally Hester Pait is one of many grandchildren of Berry Hester.
On another subject of great importance. The JOHN & BERRY HESTER families will be getting together at OAK GROVE ORIGINAL FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH FELLOWSHIP hall this coming Saturday, October 5, 2019 at 1PM for their family reunion. All those with either of these two families in their history are cordially invited to attend. Billy, this includes you and all your family; remember, your maternal grandmother Sally Hester Pait is one of many grandchildren of Berry Hester.
wrote on 10/01/2019 at 12:52 pm:
GC, Jonah was just like Trump's whistleblower, putting his own life in danger to preach truth, justice and the rule of Law in order to save a Nation. Both God's law and man's Law.
Donald Trump doesn't need prayer until he learns how to pray.
Donald Trump doesn't need prayer until he learns how to pray.
Hello readers.
BladenOnline.com would like to welcome you to the Guestbook page. In the past some advertisers threatened to pull advertising from our media outlet due to comments made on our Guestbook page.
We have made the decision to bring back the Guestbook page even at the risk of losing advertisers because we value the freedom of speech.
The views and opinions expressed here on our Guestbook page are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of BladenOnline.com, our staff members or our advertisers. Any content provided by our authors, users and contributors are of their opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethic group, club, organization, company, individual, anyone or anything.
The Guestbook may permit the submission of certain user-generated text, information, data, video, chats, audio, photographs, files, messages or other content to or through the Guestbook page (“User Submissions”) and the hosting, sharing, transmission and/or publishing (“posting”) of such User Submissions. User Submissions may be used, distributed and published by BladenOnline.com and viewed by both general users and Members of the BladenOnline.com. You understand that BladenOnline.com does not guarantee any confidentiality with respect to any User Submissions.
BladenOnline.com encourages you to carefully choose the information you submit, post, or provide to others using the Services or Services features (including, but not limited to, comments, blogs, video chat sessions, mobile application, Promotions entries, or Contest entries). BladenOnline.com does not endorse any User Submission or any opinion, recommendation, or advice expressed therein.
Any conversations or information you have or share with others using features that are available on the Services and any User Submissions may be accessible and viewable by all other users or by other Members of the Services. BladenOnline.com reserves the right, but undertakes no duty, to remove, edit, or reject any User Submissions at any time, in its sole discretion, for any reason or no reason, including User Submissions that in the sole judgment of BladenOnline.com violate these Terms of Use, or which might be offensive, illegal, or that might violate the rights, harm, or threaten the safety of users or others.
Even after a User Submission is removed from the Services, whether such removal or deletion is by you or by us, copies of that User Submission may be retained and/or remain viewable by us, our licensors, vendors, service providers and/or other third parties, including other users. BladenOnline.com may restrict, suspend or terminate any user’s access to or use of all or any part of the Services or its features at any time, for any reason, with or without notice and with no liability to BladenOnline.com whatsoever.
You shall be solely responsible for your own User Submissions and the consequences of posting them and you agree that we are only acting as a passive conduit for your online distribution and publication of your User Submissions. In connection with User Submissions, you affirm, represent and warrant that: (i) you own or have the necessary licenses, rights, consents and permissions to use and authorize BladenOnline.com to use all copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, patents or any other proprietary or personal rights in and to your User Submissions to enable inclusion and use of such User Submissions in the manner contemplated by the Services and their Terms of Use; (ii) posting your User Submission on or through the Services does not and will not violate any confidentiality obligations between you and any person or organization or the privacy rights, publicity rights or other rights of any person; and (iii) you have the written consent, release and/or permission of each and every identifiable person or organization in your User Submission to use the name or likeness of each and every such identifiable person or organization to enable inclusion and use of the User Submissions in the manner contemplated by the Services and these Terms of Use. You further affirm, represent and warrant that your User Submissions are not defamatory or libelous in any manner whatsoever. BladenOnline.com reserves the right to remove user submission(s).
User agrees to indemnify BladenOnline.com for any content User post which user does not have the requisite permission as affirmed in (i) – (iii) in the foregoing paragraph.
You are solely responsible at your sole cost and expense for creating backup copies and replacing any User Submission you post or store through the Services or provide to BladenOnline.com.
All User Submissions posted on BladenOnline.com’s Websites or through BladenOnline.com’s Services will be the exclusive property of BladenOnline.com.
You may contact BladenOnline.com at 910-879-1029 or email bladenonline.com@gmail.com.
Comments are closed.