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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for June 24

Trouble sleeping, think a redbug may be the culprit.  So I Google bug bites.  After much in depth study at 1 AM, I give up.  Remember what my mom would tell me…It will be OK in a few days…. I then decided while I was attempting to ‘wear out’  an insect bite, would look at my Sunday School lesson, one more time. A couple of quotes worth remembering: A lot of people want mercy for themselves but justice for others! The amount of time, energy, and money we have is not as important as the way we use it. Not sure how that relates to a redbug bite that is …..

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District 9 DYB Minors Tournament: West Robeson American 10, Elizabethtown 8

ELIZABETHTOWN–A 5-run fifth inning rally propelled West Robeson American to a 10-8 victory over Elizabethtown Saturday in the opening round of the District 9 Dixie Youth Baseball Minors Tournament. Tyler Lewis walked, stole second base and dashed home on Mason Smith’s first-inning single to give Elizabethtown an early lead. West Robeson pulled even with a run in the home first. Elizabethtown went back in front with 3 runs in the second inning. Coley Sasser singled, and Jayce Hatcher walked. Easton Bostic hammered a double to centerfield that scored Sasser and Hatcher. Gavin Elks knocked in Bostic with a single to pad the lead to 4-1. West Robeson trimmed the margin …..

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District 2 DYB Minors Tournament: Riegelwood 15, Bladen County 5

WHITEVILLE – Riegelwood exploded for ten runs in the top of the sixth inning to snap a 5-5 tie and defeat Bladen County 15-5 in the opening round of the District 2 Dixie Youth Baseball Minors Tournament. Five Riegelwood hits, 3 walks and 3 Bladen errors produced the ten runs. Riegelwood built an early 2-0 lead, before Bladen rallied with five runs in the third inning. Jackie Combs drilled a double to rightfield, Kaleb Gaddy walked, and Sai’quan Leach belted a single to right that scored Combs, and an error on the play plated Gaddy and Leach. Jackson Pait and Clayton Moore drew walks. Weston Hilburn knocked in Pait with …..

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District 9 DYB Majors Tournament: Elizabethtown 13, West Robeson National 0

ELIZABETHTOWN – Carson Gooden and Britt Sasser combined to pitch a no-hitter Saturday as Elizabethtown defeated West Robeson National 13-0 in the opening round of the District 9 Dixie Youth Baseball Majors Tournament. Gooden worked the first two innings on the mound, and Sasser relieved and pitched the final two innings for the winners. Elizabethtown exploded for eleven runs in the second inning. Parker Greene ripped a double to rightfield, and Hunter Smith laced a single to centerfield. After Britt Sasser walked to load the bases, Torreon Graham delivered a single that scored Greene and Smith. Kelec Autry reached base on an error as Sasser scored. Elijah Cain beat out …..

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Heat Safety for Vehicles

Learn how the temperature outside may affect the temperature inside your vehicle. With the summer months upon us, now is the time to learn about the dangers of heatstroke and being trapped in a hot car. Heatstroke is dangerous and can be deadly. Never leave children, pets, or older adults unattended in a parked car. Use the following life saving tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to remind yourself and others to check the back seat before walking away from a vehicle. Children mistakenly being left in hot vehicles make up many of the tragedies reported each year. *Look Before You Lock. Get into the routine of always checking …..

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Three Common Ways Your Social Security Payment Can Grow After Retirement

By Brenda Brown Social Security Public Affairs Specialist You made the choice and now you are happily retired. You filed online for your Social Security benefits. They arrive each month in the correct amount exactly as expected. Did you ever wonder if your Social Security check could increase? Once you begin receiving benefits, benefit checks can increase three common ways. They are a cost of living adjustment (COLA), additional work, or an adjustment at full retirement age if you received reduced benefits and exceeded the earnings limit. The COLA is the most commonly known increase for Social Security payments. We annually announce a COLA. There is usually an increase in …..

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NC Wildlife Resources Commission

Wildlife Commission Announces July 4 as Free Fishing Day

On July 4, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission invites anglers and would-be anglers of all ages to go fishing — for free. From 12 a.m. until 11:59 p.m., everyone in North Carolina — resident and non-residents alike — can fish in any public body of water, including coastal waters, without purchasing a fishing license or additional trout fishing privilege. Although no fishing license is required, all other fishing regulationsapply, such as length and daily possession limits, as well as bait and tackle restrictions. To give anglers a better chance of catching fish, the Commission stocks a variety of fish in waters across the state — including trout and channel catfish. The …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History for June 24

1664 – The colony of New Jersey is founded. 1853 – US President Franklin Pierce signs the Gadsden Purchase, buying 29,670 square-miles from Mexico for $10 million (now southern Arizona and New Mexico). 1880 – First performance of “O Canada,” the song that would become the national anthem of Canada. 1894 – Decision to hold modern Olympics every 4 years. 1916 – Mary Pickford becomes the first female film star to get a million dollar contract. 1922 – US football team Chicago Staleys become Chicago Bears. 1938 – 500 ton meteorite lands near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. 1947 – Jackie Robinson swipes home for 1st of 19 times in his career. 1949 …..

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NC Wildlife Resources Commission

Boating Safety Campaigns Bring Heightened Enforcement on N.C. Waters

The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and its partners will continue the “On the Road, On the Water, Don’t Drink and Drive” campaign and participate in the “Operation Dry Water” campaign over the upcoming holiday weekends. From June 29 through July 1, wildlife officers will focus on boating law compliance on the waterways and spread public awareness for “Operation Dry Water,” a national campaign that promotes sobriety while boating. These enhanced enforcement initiatives will continue from July 6–8 during the “On the Road, On the Water, Don’t Drink and Drive” campaign. The annual multi-agency initiative works to ensure safe travel on the road and enjoyment on the water during summer holidays. …..

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Cape Fear Teen Challenge conducts Open House

By Erin Smith Bladen County now has a treatment facility for women who suffer from addiction. Cape Fear Teen Challenge conducted an Open House Saturday to give Bladen County residents the opportunity to view the facility and to learn more about the program. Pastor Holly Loyer, with Teen Challenge, said the business owners and residents the staff has met as they prepared for the Open House have made them feel at home. “We have been made to feel so welcome by everyone,” said Pastor Loyer. Twelve women between the ages of 18 and 40 will be housed at Cape Fear Teen Challenge and there will be a staff member on …..

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Bladen County Headlines... 35 Years Ago

Bladen County Headlines 35 Years Ago

Sherman Gilliard III commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in the U.S. Army Reserve. The Elizabethtown Town Council adopted a fire service contract with Bladen County. Bladen County could be eligible for a $702,000.00 federal grant for school construction. Clark-Shaw Ford celebrated their 80th Anniversary in business. Share:

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Recipients of First Boost the Boro Scholarship Award Announced

Contributed Boost the ‘Boro, Inc. announced today that Madison Cierra Byrd and Elizabeth Rae Allbright, both of Bladenboro, and graduates of West Bladen High School are the recipients of the first annual Boost the ‘Boro Scholarship. According to President Don White, “The scholarship award has been a goal of the organization since it was formed over ten years but never got much traction until we made it a part of our planning and budgeting activities two years ago. Our members felt we were now in the position now to make the first two awards in 2018.” Sunday Allen, a member of the Bladen County Educational system, serves as Committee Chair …..

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Diamond Divas Bladen Recreation’s 5-7 Coach-Pitch Softball champs

The Diamond Divas won Bladen Recreation’s 5-7 Coach-Pitch Softball League with a 7-0 record. Pictured are front row (left -right) – Anna Walters, Harper Ward, Landry Singletary, Abbey Nance. Back Row (L-R): Maycee Kinlaw, Hadley Dove, Allison Hickman, Bristol Allen, Chloe Thompson, Ellie Wilkins, Addison Carroll. Not pictured are Chloe Walters. Coaches: Heather Dove, Mike Dove, Ashley Singletary,  Jordan Allen, Terry Nance. Share:

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Gardening: Closed to Pests

By Rachel Williams Gardening is harder than it looks … just when we think we know what we’re doing, our beds are attacked by outside forces. How to prevent ultimate defeat? Rather, how to be at war with nature, when you’re trying to be in harmony? Be your garden’s ally – provide adequate reinforcements by instituting an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan using some of these methods. As with insects, our ecosystem is delicate. Please think through your actions carefully – you wouldn’t want to go get your legs waxed and end up leaving with a bald head. Okay, the bad news first: There’s no such thing as 100 percent …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for June 23

Local governments have adopted budgets for FY 2018-19 or will this week. When I covered local government meetings, one of the budget items I most often checked was sales tax projections and the actual income.  Tourism adds greatly to that line item in most local budgets, especially the Bladen County budget and that is good for all citizens.  Millions are collected, and the numbers grow faster in the summertime. July 4th is just days away. Think often of Sincere Smith, the recent East Bladen grad who was drafted by the Yankees in the Major League Baseball (MLB) draft.  The Yankees are sorting it all out and beginning to assign their new …..

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Elizabethtown Minors Supplemental All-Stars

The Elizabethtown Minors Supplemental All-Stars won their opening game in the District 2 Minors Supplemental Tournament at Whiteville. Pictured are Front Row (Left-Right): Hunter Wood, Collin Cole, Claxton Tatum, Braylon Cromartie, Inman Carson, Joshua Dawson. Second Row (L-R): Jaxon Hair, Finesse Shipman, Aiden Hargrove, Jake Gooden, Kewone Maynor, Ryan Dove, Ahmarie White. Back Row (L-R): Coaches Kory Hair, Dale Wood. Manager Rusty Hill. Share:

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District 2 DYB Minors Supplemental Tournament: Elizabethtown 14, South Columbus 3

WHITEVILLE – Claxton Tatum and Braylon Cromartie combined to pitch a 5-hitter as Elizabethtown defeated South Columbus 14-3 Friday night in the opening round of the District 2 Dixie Youth Baseball Minors Supplemental Tournament. Elizabethtown grabbed a 2-1 lead with a pair of first inning runs. Finesse Shipman led off with a single, and Aiden Hargrove knocked her in with a double. Jake Gooden belted a single that scored Hargrove. Jaxon Hair smashed a double to begin the Elizabethtown second inning. Inman Carson walked, and Cromartie ripped a double that scored Hair and Carson. Hunter Wood laced a single that scored Cromartie and padded the lead to 5-1. Carson, Cromartie …..

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Public Meeting

Emereau:Bladen Board of Directors meeting rescheduled

The Emereau: Bladen Board of Director’s Meeting scheduled for Thursday, June 21, 2018 has been rescheduled to Wednesday, June 27, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss budget issues and personnel matters for the 2018-2019 school year. These items will be presented for action, as per NC General Statute 143.318.11(a). A public body may close a session for the following purpose: to establish, or to instruct the public body’s staff or negotiating agents concerning the position to be taken by or on behalf of the public body in negotiating (i) the price and other material terms of a contract or a proposed contract for the …..

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Dixie Boys Baseball: Navy 11, Royal 10

ELIZABETHTOWN – Bryley Williams was hit by pitch to force home Davion Graham with the winning run in the bottom of the seventh inning as the Navy edged the Royal 11-10 Friday night in Dixie Boys Baseball action at County Park. Graham walked to begin the Navy seventh inning, and Antonio Candelaria and Brycen Blackmon beat out infield hits to load the bases with one out, before the winning run scored. The Royal had jumped in front 6-0 in the first inning. Nathan Howell and Evan Pait led off with singles and Raymond Autry walked. Destin Montgomery blasted a 3-run triple to left-centerfield that scored Howell, Pait and Autry. Garrison …..

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NC Pork Council: At hog farm trial, crucial witness is… missing

By Andy Curliss, CEO NC Pork Council Expert testimony from a vitally important witness is missing from the nuisance trial in Raleigh underway against a Duplin County hog farm. The witness’ name is Dr. Pamela Dalton. Dr. Dalton is an expert on odor. Actually, not just any expert. Dr. Dalton is a world-renowned expert on odor. Her research has been funded previously by the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Defense and NASA. Her research is cited and quoted extensively. But Dr. Dalton has been repeatedly prohibited by the judge from offering any of her expert testimony about odor to the jury. You see, the judge has ruled that …..

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Congressman Pittenger Announces over $11 Million in Hurricane Matthew Grants for Robeson County

LUMBERTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) today announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will provide over $11 million to buy out, elevate, or replace 119 flood-ravaged homes in Robeson County. *A $4,507,487 grant will be used to purchase and demolish 47 residential structures in Lumberton which flooded during Hurricane Matthew.  The deeds will be transferred to the City of Lumberton to be used as open space. *A $1,831,867 grant will be used to elevate 20 residential structures in Lumberton to prevent damage from future floods. *A $3,307,963 grant will be used to replace and elevate 34 residential structures in Lumberton which were destroyed during Hurricane Matthew. *A $1,800,821 grant …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History For June 23

1683 – William Penn signs friendship treaty with Lenni Lenape Indians in Pennsylvania; only treaty “not sworn to, nor broken” 1810 – John Jacob Astor organizes the Pacific Fur Company in Astoria, Oregon. 1819 – First edition of “The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent.” by Washington Irving released, featuring story “Rip Van Winkle” 1917 – Ernie Shore replaces Red Sox with a runner on, he throws him out & retires all 26 he faces for a perfect game. 1922 – 57th British Gold Open: Walter Hagen shoots a 300 at Royal St. George. 1926 – The College Board administers the first SAT exam in USA. 1933 – Don McNeill’s …..

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Elizabethtown PD Issues Body Cameras to officers

A goal of the Elizabethtown Police Department is to promote transparency and accountability within our community. In an effort to achieve this goal, Elizabethtown has become the first law enforcement agency in Bladen County to implement body worn cameras. With the assistance of the North Carolina Crime Commission, we received a 50/50 grant that allowed us to purchase body worn cameras for all uniformed members of our patrol division. With enhanced technology, body worn cameras are both useful and necessary for informing and maintaining public confidence and trust.  Body worn cameras enables officers to record situations that occur in most any environment and provide the best opportunity of capturing the …..

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Rockets Are 8-10 Softball League Co-Champions

The Rockets defeated the Bandits 11-8 Thursday night to tie for the championship of Bladen Recreation’s 8-10 Fast-Pitch Softball League. Both teams finished with 5-1 records. Rocket team members are: Brenna Hester, Mollie Tolar, Mary Frances Sutton, Kaelyn Eason, Julia Flowers, Leah McGill, Matilda Kinlaw, Niyah Wooten, Kali Allen, Gracey Clark, Sarah Grace Cain, Miriam DeVane, Taylor Dowless, Jakelina Medina Leal, Emma Heath. Coaches are Jason Sutton, Earl Godfrey, Nathan Dowless. Share:

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Bandits Are 8-10 Fast-Pitch Softball League Co-Champions

The Bandits tied for Bladen Recreation’s 8-10 Fast-Pitch Softball League Championship with a 5-1 record. Team members are: Ellie Graysen Kinlaw, Layla Jean Page, Aubrey Schwable, Marlene Crabtree, Emma Dunn, Laci Buffkin, Josey Pait, Gabriella Bray, Pateyn Pope, Danenn Knight, Kallie Bass, Hayley Wright, Anna Robinson. Coaches are Jennifer Fruchey, Stacie Kinlaw, Jamie Kinlaw, Tommy Knight and Bobby Wright. Share:

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Wilmington Man Sentenced to More Than 10 Years for Drug Distribution Charge

ELIZABETH CITY – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that, United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle sentenced Lewis Alexander Hines, 26, of Wilmington to 120 months of imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release. Hines was named in a five-count Superseding Indictment filed on July 25, 2017.  On October 5, 2017, Hines pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 28 Grams or More of Cocaine Base. In January 2017, agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force (FBI) and the Wilmington Police Department Gang Unit (WPD) initiated an investigation into the drug distribution activities of …..

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13-16 Fast-Pitch Softball League: Comets 9, Stars 4

ELIZABETHTOWN – The Comets rode a 7-run third-inning rally to a 9-4 victory over the Stars Thursday night in the final game of Bladen Recreation’s 13-16 Fast-Pitch Softball League season. Briley Stanley was hit by a pitch to start the game, stole second base and circled the bases on wild pitches. Alyssa Suggs was hit by a pitch and scored on a throwing error to put the Comets ahead 2-0. The Stars pulled even with two runs in the second inning. Hannah Pait beat out an infield hit, advanced on a throwing error and scored on Hailey Guyton’s fielder’s choice. An error on the play put Guyton on base, and Grace West …..

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Free medicine event planned for June 29

By Roxana Ross There will be a free giveaway of over-the-counter medicines and other medicine cabinet items on Friday, June 29, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chestnut Street United Methodist Church, which is located at 200 E. Eighth St., Lumberton. During the event, participants should arrive at the church sanctuary, where they will go through registration and a needs assessment. No identification is required, but participants must be at least 18 years old to receive items. After indicating top household needs across many common medicine cabinet items, a volunteer personal shopper will take the list to collect the supplies on hand, while they last. Each individual will receive …..

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Tillis Co-Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Increase Benefits for Veterans

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, joined Chairman Johnny Isakson (R-GA), and Ranking Member Jon Tester (D-MT) to introduce the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2018, bipartisan legislation to increase veterans’ disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). “We made a promise to the men and women who served our country that they would be taken care after serving our country and protecting the freedoms we enjoy every day,” said Senator Tillis.“I am proud to stand with every member of the Senate VA Committee to fulfill that promise and introduce this important legislation to ensure our nation’s veterans receive …..

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Poyner Spruill partner McIntyre receives prestigious state public service award

Contributed RALEIGH, N.C. — Poyner Spruill partner and former North Carolina Congressman Mike McIntyre has been honored for a lifetime of public service by the North Carolina Bar Association. McIntyre received The Chief Justice I. Beverly Lake Jr. Public Service Award at the Bar Association’s Awards Banquet at its convention on Thursday, June 21st, in Wilmington, North Carolina. The award recognizes an outstanding lawyer in North Carolina who has performed exemplary public service. The award is not given every year. Nominees are sent to the Past Presidents’ Council as the selection committee, and the committee’s selection is subject to Board of Governors/Directors approval. McIntyre was chosen by a unanimous vote. …..

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US House Passes 2018 Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, DC –  Congressman Rouzer released the statement below following the passage of H.R. 2 – the Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018, commonly referred to as the 2018 Farm Bill: “A strong farm bill is critical to our farm families and rural communities — not to mention its role in providing every American with the safest, most affordable food supply in the world.  The 7th District will especially benefit from the Farm Bill because of the steps taken to prevent potential animal disease outbreaks, the enhancements made to the farm safety net, and the investments made to help address the infrastructure needs of our rural communities.  The Farm Bill also makes …..

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North Carolina peach season under way

RALEIGH – Good news for peach lovers. Growers are reporting fair to good crops for the 2018 peach season, which runs through Labor Day. “Growers are reporting an average crop with availability varying depending on where the orchard is located. We’ve seen some loss in early varieties, but later clingstone varieties and freestone varieties should be plentiful this year,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Our growers are really good at protecting their crops from volatile weather, but you can only do so much about the extreme cold weather and heavy rains we experienced earlier this year.” Troxler encourages consumers to check with their favorite peach grower for availability and timing …..

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Tillis & King Bipartisan Legislation Holding VA Executives Accountable Signed Into Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Angus King (I-ME) was signed into law. The VA Senior Executive Accountability (SEA) Act of 2018 will strengthen accountability of senior executives at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). There are numerous instances within the VA where Senior Executive Service (SES) employees used their leadership positions as leverage to be reassigned to another position for their own personal gain, or were reassigned, rather than disciplined, for poor performance. Following exposure of this practice, the VA halted their Appraised Value Offer (AVO) program, a program used to move senior executives that was often costly to taxpayers. Despite its past scandals, the …..

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NC House mulls Constitutional amendment for Voter ID

By Erin Smith The North Carolina House of Representatives is mulling an amendment to the North Carolina State Constitution to make showing photo identification to vote a requirement. The bill is expected to be presented on the floor of the NC House on Monday. Many groups have concerns that such a change will disenfranchise some voters. House District 22 Representative William Brisson said, “Just about everything you do, you have to have some type of identification.” Many hotels require photo identification for check-in and photo identification is required at many banks to open an account. NC House Bill 1092 will go to the floor of the NC House on Monday …..

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Students Help Promote Summer Meals Programs

Students from Franklin, Harnett and Union County Schools received top honors Wednesday in the North Carolina Summer Nutrition Programs promotional materials contest, in which students design promotional materials to help increase the awareness of N.C. Summer Nutrition Programs. Student promotional materials contest winners were recognized at the opening session of the School Nutrition Association of North Carolina Annual Conference. The N.C. Summer Nutrition Programs, administered by NCDPI School Nutrition Services, provide meals at no cost to children and teens, ages 18 and younger, at almost 3,000 locations statewide during the summer months. Last summer, more than 5.2 million meals were served to children and teens through these programs, yet only 12 of …..

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Assessing cyber security threats and keeping your information safe

By Erin Smith Keeping your personal data and company safe from cyber threats is an important task. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offered a webinar on how to keep your data safe from a cyber attack. Cyber threats come in all manner of methods and from all manner of sources. According to FEMA there are national threats from foreign countries such as China, Russia, North Korea and Iran. According to FEMA, on the national level, Russia poses the greatest cyber threat to the United States. Russia has the capability to remotely access and data mine websites for information that can be used later to shut down websites or in …..

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Certification Form needed for registering deeds

County of Bladen State of North Carolina PO Box 385 Elizabethtown, North Carolina 28337 Starting, July 1, 2018 a Certification Form will need to be completed before the Deed is registered with the Bladen County Register of Deeds. Certification Forms will be available within the Tax Administration office, Register of Deeds office, or online at bladeninfo.org. This will replace the previous deed stamp. For more information, contact the Tax Administration Office: 201 E King St. Elizabethtown, NC 28337 910-862-6730 Share:

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You Decide: What Should Be Done About Income Inequality?

By Dr. Mike Walden Income inequality is one of those terms that receives different reactions from people. Some view it as a natural result of our economic system. Others view it as the rich robbing the poor. Still, others ignore it by focusing on their own lives and whether they are making progress. But first, what is the issue with income inequality? The issue actually is not with income inequality specifically. Most people realize and expect everyone won’t earn the same income in such a large, diverse and competitive economy as ours. Instead, the issue is really with increasing income inequality – the fact that the difference in incomes of …..

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Vineyard Golf

Activities At Vineyard Golf

The winning team of the June 21 Thundering Herd at Vineyard Golf was Roger Smith, Cade Hancock, Jim Hancock and Colby Phaneuf. They shot an eight under par for the nine holes. Some par or better scores have been shot lately. Cade Hancock shot even par 72, Courtney Brisson shot 69 and Stacy Owen shot 70. Share:

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Kiwanis Club raising funds to give more 

Contributed The Elizabethtown Kiwanis Club moved to their new meeting place at Cindy’s restaurant on US Highway 701 for their June meeting. The group was excited to have the new eatery offering delicious food to meet at each month and display their club sign according to Dr. Lisa Bryan the club’s Secretary. Everyone still has a chance to win a Snapper mower while helping Kiwanis Club. The Elizabethtown Kiwanis Club Fundraiser for the Snapper lawn mower donated by Thompson’s Small Engine Repair is coming to a close. The last day to turn in tickets is June 29th. Every member has tickets for $5 to sale. The club gave away four …..

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North Carolina National Guard Renames Fayetteville Readiness Center for Fallen Soldier
  • 06/22/2018
  • News
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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Senior leaders from the North Carolina National Guard will join dignitaries and community members to dedicate the N.C. National Guard’s Fayetteville Readiness Center as the Maj. Jason George Center on Saturday, June 23, 2018. The dedication honors Maj. Jason George, who was a member of the N.C. National Guard’s 252nd Combined Arms Battalion. On 21, May 2009, while on patrol in Baghdad Iraq, George was mortally wounded when his unit was attacked by enemy forces using an IED. George was an Eagle Scout, West Point graduate and held a master’s degree from the University of Michigan. Share:

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First Missionary Baptist Church to hold Prayer Breakfast
  • 06/22/2018
  • Church
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First Missionary Baptist Church will be having a Prayer Breakfast on Saturday, July 7, 2018 at 9 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall.  Evangelist Ollie Maultsby will be the guest speaker.  If you want your soul to be uplifted, come out and share in this experience with us you will be glad you did. Share:

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for June 22

When there is nothing else to talk about, there’s always the weather.  It has been a hot week and summer has just arrived.  The forecast calls for more of the same through Monday with chance of rain increasing from around 20% to 60% on Monday. I made another boo boo yesterday when I listed sponsors of the Sunset Jams Concert Series.  I only listed the Gold Sponsors.  Silver sponsors include B.W. Greene Properties, Wam Squam/Minuteman Food Marts, Hilton Auction & Realty, Inc and BladenOnline.com. Bronze sponsors are Bladen Builders Supply, First Bank, First Source Staffing, Lacy-West Thomas Insurance, McDuffie Pest Control, Regal Resort & The Venue, Sharonview Federal Credit Union, Sundeck Apartments, Sunset …..

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Thunder Win Bladen Recreation 11-12 Softball League

  The Thunder won Bladen Recreation’s 11-12 Fast-Pitch Softball League with a 5-1 record.  Pictured are Front Row (Left-Right): Megan Pait, Lena Trinidad, Haley Bryan, Marlie Walters. Back Row (L-R): Holland Davis, Josephine Culbreth, Kaden Thurman, Tara Hester, Brookee Singletary, Nyla Hunter, Coach Heather Pait. Not pictured are Summer Singletary and Coach Joe Walters.  Share:

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11-12 Fast-Pitch Softball League Thunder 15, Glory 4

ELIZABETHTOWN – The Thunder closed out their championship season in Bladen Recreation’s 11-12 Fast-Pitch Softball League with a 15-4 victory over the Glory Thursday night. The Thunder finished the season with a 5-1 record. The Thunder jumped in front with 6 runs in the top of the first inning. Lena Trinidad, Kaden Thurman, Holland Davis, Nyla Hunter, Brookee Singletary and Summer Singletary belted singles and scored runs. McKenzi Storms, Karly Ross and Stacey Gomez cracked singles and scored runs for the Glory in the top of the second inning to trim the margin to 6-3. Trinidad, Thurman, Davis, Hunter and Summer Singletary smacked singles in the home half of the second for …..

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Elizabethtown Coach Pitch All-Stars Are District Champions

Elizabethtown’s Coach-Pitch All-Stars won the District 9 Coach-Pitch Championship Thursday night. Elizabethtown won their four games by a combined score of 63-7. Front Row : Gunner Lewis, Omar Powell, Cooper Long, Javonte Smith, Devance Tatum, Ryker Strickland 2nd Row : Fox Sutton, Brady Marlowe, Cade Rogers, Tyler Eason, Seth Faircloth, Jag Gooden Coaches : Jason Sutton, Justin Rogers, Rodney Long, Brooks Tatum Share:

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Dixie Youth Baseball

District 9 DYB Coach-Pitch Tournament Elizabethtown 14, West Robeson American 0

LUMBERTON – Elizabethtown completed their four game sweep through the District 9 Dixie Youth Baseball Coach-Pitch Tournament with a 14-0 victory over West Robeson American Thursday night in the championship game. In four games the Elizabethtown team outscored their opponents by a 63-7 margin. Omar Powell led off the Elizabethtown first inning with a single, but was retired on Devance Tatum’s fielder’s choice. Ryker Strickland cracked a single, and Tyler Eason slugged a 3-run home run that scored Tatum and Strickland. Brady Marlowe and Cade Rogers belted singles, but Rogers was retired on Cooper Long’s fielder’s choice. Seth Faircloth reached base on an error that scored Marlowe. Fox Sutton laced a single …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History – June 22

1847 – First ring doughnut supposedly created by Hanson Gregory. 1870 – US Congress creates Department of Justice. 1932 – Congress approves “Lindbergh Act” making kidnapping a federal offense (amended 1934) 1934 – John Dillinger is informally named America’s first Public Enemy Number One. 1942 – Japanese submarine in mouth of Columbia River, Oregon. 1944 – US President Franklin Roosevelt signs “GI Bill of Rights” (Servicemen’s Readjustment Act) 1949 – Ezzard Charles beats Jersey Joe Walcott in 15 for National Boxing Association world heavyweight title. 1959 – “Along Came Jones” by Coasters peaks at #9. 1962 – 1st test flight of a Hovercraft. 1970 – President Richard Nixon signs extension …..

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Fun times with Summer Jams

By Charlotte Smith Thursday, June 21 is the first actual day of summer in 2018. The crowd came out to Goldston’s Beach at White Lake to kick off the season with the first concert of the Summer Jams Concert Series.  The Imitations had the crowd dancing and entertained from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. with beach music. The series is presented by the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Southeastern Health. First Bank, R.A. Jeffreys, Sharonview Federal Credit Union, Sunset Slush of Bladen and BladenOnline.com were vendors offering give aways to the folks in attendance. “It is a great crowd having a ton of fun,” said Maurice Williams, Whimsical …..

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Dixie Boys Baseball: Navy 10, Columbia 7, 8 innings

ELIZABETHTOWN – The Navy scored 3 runs in the eighth inning to defeat Columbia 10-7 Wednesday night Dixie Boys Baseball action at County Park. The two teams were deadlocked 7-7 after 7 innings and an international tie-breaker rule that places a runner at second base to start the inning was used in the eighth inning. In the top of the eighth, Kaiden Stanley was the Navy runner placed at second base and Aaron Wren walked. Both runners advanced on stolen bases and both scored when Wadeyn Norris lined a single to leftfield. Norris stole second and eventually scored on a balk for a 10-7 Navy lead. Alex Strange pitched two scoreless innings …..

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Businesses and government offices moving to new locations

By Erin Smith Some Bladen County businesses and government offices have spent the past few weeks moving to new addresses. The Bladen County Administration Department, Tax Department, Human Resources Department, and Finance Department have all moved from the Bladen County Courthouse to 201 E. King Street, Elizabethtown. This location formerly served as the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office. The Elizabethtown Florist has announced they are preparing to move to a new location. They will be relocating to 408 West Broad Street, Elizabethtown, in July. Until then, you can find them at their current location of 120 West Broad Street in Elizabethtown. They will be adding the Posh Posey Event Design Studio, …..

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Teen Challenge to host Open House Saturday

By Erin Smith Teen Challenge will host an Open House for their Bladen County location on Saturday, June 23rd, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. The house is located at 1456 Lula Long Road in the Ammon community and everyone is encouraged to come and learn more about the Teen Challenge program. Teen Challenge will begin to accept applications for the Bladen County location on Monday, June 25th. However, if you need treatment, you can call Albemarle Teen Challenge at 252-338-8263 and Teen Challenge will work with you to get you the help you need. The curriculum utilized for Teen Challenge includes personal studies which encourage the women to study areas in …..

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Brunswick County Sheriff to Hold Active Shooter Training at Courthouse 

Contributed Brunswick County, N.C. – In keeping with best practices and in an effort to ensure the safety of judges, staff, and the public, the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office along with Brunswick County Court Officials will be holding an active shooter training exercise inside the Brunswick County Courthouse the afternoon of Thursday, June 21st. An administrative order has been issued to close the courthouse to the public during this time. Any member of the public who needs to file something after 12:00 p.m. can do so at the Magistrates’ Office located at the Brunswick County Detention Center, 70 Stamp Act Drive, Bolivia, NC. The Sheriff’s Office will begin clearing the …..

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Elizabethtown woman arrested and charged with identity theft

By Erin Smith An Elizabethtown woman was charged with identify theft after a Whiteville Police Officer attempted to serve warrants for driving while license revoked and identity theft from Robeson County on June 16th. According to Division Commander Major A. May, with the Whiteville Police Department, officers were contacted by members of the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office regarding outstanding warrants for Sasha Willis of Elizabethtown who is employed in Whiteville. According to Major May, officers spoke with Willis and advised her she was under arrest for the outstanding warrants from Robeson County. Whiteville Police Officer J. Rawls recognized Willis from a prior traffic stop he had performed. However, she had …..

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Upcoming Events

Events for Bladen County residents

By Dora Brogdon There will be plenty for Bladen County residents to do this weekend. This Saturday the Baldwin Branch Missionary Baptist Church will be having a food pantry, from His Table to Yours, opening from 10 a.m. until noon and a clothes closet from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. No fee is required while personal transportation and identifications are required. Saturday evening, the White Oak Community Building will be the location for a barbecue chicken plate fundraiser from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. for Sandy Hunsinger. All proceeds will be going to benefit her recovery. The cost per plate is $9 and all fixings will be included. For more information call Caroline Rising …..

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Sunset Jams concert series kicks off tonight

By Erin Smith The Sunset Jams Alive After Five concert series will kick off tonight at 6 p.m. featuring the Imitations at Goldston’s Beach in White Lake. The event is sponsored by the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Southeastern Health. Admission to the concert is free and adult beverages will be available for purchase. No coolers or pets are allowed. The Imitations plays a variety of Beach, Soul and Rock N’ Roll music.  The band is from Wilmington and plays such crowd favorites as Shagging on the Boulevard, I Love Beach Music, and Carolina Girls. The Sunset Jams concert series began when the Chamber sponsored a concert at Goldston’s …..

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Elizabethtown Coach-Pitch All-Stars Win District 2 Supplemental Tourney

The Elizabethtown All-Stars defeated Whiteville 12-10 Wednesday night to win the District 2 Coach-Pitch Supplemental Tournament. Elizabethtown finished the tournament undefeated. Front Row: Gauge King, Aiden Trinidad, Taylor King, Colt Lewis, Gaston Russ, Prince McKoy Second Row: Hutch Glenn, Noah German, Jaylen Smith, Rex Register, Lathan Cashwell, Chandler Wall Coaches: Brandon King, Rich Glenn, B.J. Pait, Head Coach Charles Lewis Photo courtesy of Vanessa G Share:

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Dixie Youth Baseball

District 2 DYB Coach-Pitch Supplemental Tournament: Elizabethtown 12, Whiteville 10

TABOR CITY – A 6-run fourth inning propelled Elizabethtown to a 12-10 victory over Whiteville Wednesday night in the championship game of the District 2 Dixie Youth Baseball Coach-Pitch Supplemental Tournament. Whiteville took an early 2-0 lead, but Elizabethtown answered with 3 runs in the home first. Prince McKoy led off with a single and scored on Noah German’s single. Aiden Trinidad knocked in German with a single, and Colt Lewis and Gaston Russ followed with singles that scored Trinidad. Whiteville scored 2 runs in both the second and third innings to take a 6-3 lead. McKoy began the Elizabethtown third with a single, advanced on a pair of outs then scored …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for June 21

Summertime arrived at 6:07 a.m. today according to the Old Farmers Almanac.  “The timing of the June solstice is not based on a specific calendar date or time; it all depends on when the Sun reaches its northernmost point from the equator. Because the sun is highest in the sky on this day, you’ll notice that your shadow (at noon) is the shortest it will be all year.”  The facts according to the Almanac. Happy the situation along the Mexican/US border has been modified. July 4th is on Wednesday this year.  We normally celebrate on a weekend, so do we celebrate on the first weekend in July or the second weekend, or just on Wednesday, July …..

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Dixie Youth Baseball

District 9 DYB Coach-Pitch Tournament Elizabethtown 15, West Robeson National 3

LUMBERTON – Elizabethtown advanced to Thursday’s championship game with a 15-3 victory over West Robeson National Wednesday night in the District 9 Dixie Youth Baseball Coach-Pitch Tournament. Elizabethtown, the only unbeaten team remaining in the tournament, will play West Robeson American at 6 p.m. Thursday. A West Robeson American win would force a second championship game between the two teams at 7:30 Thursday. The winners jumped in front with a trio of first inning runs. Devante Tatum slammed a double, and Ryker Strickland knocked him in with a single. Tyler Eason walloped a triple that plated Strickland, and Cade Rogers belted a single that scored Eason. Seth Faircloth and Jag Gooden started the second inning with singles. Javonte …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History – June 21

1607 – 1st Protestant Episcopal parish in America established, Jamestown. 1768 – 1st medical diploma in America is granted to Dr. John Archer from the College of Philadelphia. 1788 – US Constitution comes into effect when New Hampshire is the 9th state to ratify it. 1821 – African Methodist Episcopal Zion (AMEZ) Church organizes (NYC) 1879 – Frank W. Woolworth opens his 1st successful “F.W. Woolworth Great Five Cent Store” on North Queen Street, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. 1904 – The US Republican Party nominates Theodore Roosevelt for President, but not without opposition from those whom he calls ‘malefactors of great wealth’ 1933 – 1st Great Lakes-to-Gulf of Mexico barge trip completed, …..

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Bladen County Sheriff announces stolen boat found

Investigators with Bladen, Columbus and New Hanover Counties located a stolen boat using the Bladen Air 1 Helicopter according to Bladen County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s office received a citizen tip about the missing boat. The Sheriff reported responding to a wooded area off of Woodyard Rd in Columbus County. The boat was reported stolen from Market 17 Marine in Wilmington on May 11th. The boat was valued at 40,000 dollars. “Thanks to everyone for their assistance. Cooperation is key to solving cases and protecting our citizens,” Sheirff Jim McVicker said. Share:

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Support for Big Tomatoes 

by Patsy Bell Hobson Long-time gardeners have usually tried several tomato trellising systems in search of a heavy-duty solution. Determinate tomato varieties require less support than indeterminate varieties that can continue growing right up  until frost. Simple staking or tomato pens are usually adequate for determinate tomatoes. Paste tomatoes are determinate or semi-determinate. Their tomatoes ripen in one flush, a short but heavy production period. Most heirloom tomatoes grow on huge, indeterminate vines with fast-growing, often unwieldy branches. These are the plants that can produce 1 and 2 pound tomatoes. Long, heavy vines with super-sized fruits require sturdy support. One way to prevent vines from snapping off is by reducing …..

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7 Steps to Prepare Your Home for Summer

As summer approaches, now is a great time to prepare your home for warmer weather and beat the heat with a cool house. Extreme heat may affect your health or the health of those around you. Learn ways to reduce the heat in your home. The Ready Campaign recommends the following measures to keep your home cool this summer: Check to see if your home’s cooling system is working properly. Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the cool air inside. Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary. Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation. Install temporary window …..

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Duke Energy Progress files annual adjustments with North Carolina Utilities Commission for customers in North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. – Duke Energy Progress today made its annual filings with the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) for costs associated with fuel, compliance with the state’s renewable energy portfolio standard (REPS), cost recovery under the Joint Agency Asset Rider (JAAR), and implementation of energy efficiency (EE) and demand-side management (DSM) programs. In its filing, Duke Energy Progress is proposing an increase in monthly fuel costs as part of an annual adjustment of the actual cost of fuel used to power North Carolina homes and businesses through renewable, natural gas, nuclear and coal-fired generation. By law, the company makes no profit from the fuel component of rates. Natural gas prices …..

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Beware the Heat

By Dora Brogdon I’m sure everyone looked forward to summer as a kid. When summer came around that meant school was out and it was time to hang out with friends or to get a job during that nice long break. While that break was full of either sunny or rainy days, the heat was and still is something not to be ignored. It can and will cause heat-related illness that can take a serious toll on the body if one isn’t careful. A heat stroke is one of a few things heat can do to a person. It raises both the body’s temperature to 103 F or higher and …..

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Senators Introduce Legislation to Keep Families Together and Ensure The Integrity of Immigration Laws

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, a group of senators led by Thom Tillis (R-NC), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Tom Cotton (R-AR), John Cornyn (R-TX), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Dean Heller (R-NV) introduced the Keep Families Together and Enforce the Law Act, which keeps families together while ensuring the integrity of our nation’s immigration laws. The legislation requires that children and their parents remain together during their legal proceedings. Original co-sponsors include Chuck Grassley (R-IA), James Lankford (R-OK), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Ben Sasse (R-NE), Pat Roberts (R-KS), Steve Daines (R-MT), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Jeff Flake (R-AZ), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), …..

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Information Regarding This Morning’s Staff Assault at Central Prison

RALEIGH – This morning at approximately 8 a.m., two correctional officers were assaulted in a dining area incident at Central Prison. Early indications determined several inmates refused orders from staff. Two of the correctional officers who responded were both assaulted by one inmate who hit them with his fists. The situation was brought under control by other staff. The injured correctional officers were taken to outside medical for treatment and were released. No other staff or offenders were determined to be injured during this incident. The incident is under internal investigation and local law enforcement was contacted. DPS is cooperating with local law enforcement related to any criminal charges that may be …..

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All About Squash Workshop

The Bladen County Cooperative Extension Office is offering a workshop “All About Squash” on Tuesday, July 24, at 6 p.m. Learn what to do with your excess summer squash. The workshop will explore a variety of ways to use squash in your meals. There is no cost to attend. The Bladen County Cooperative Extension Office is located at 450 Smith Circle in Elizabethtown. For more information contact Nancy Olsen at 910-862-4591.   Share:

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Garden Tool repair workshop set

Learn how to repair, sand and sharpen your garden tools the right way. The Bladen County Cooperative Extension Office will be conducting a Garden Tool Repair Workshop on Thursday, August 16, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Bring your spade, hoe, and hand clippers. A very nice tool kit will be provided for participants. The cost is $15 registration and the class will be conducted at the Bladen County Cooperative Extension Office located at 450 Smith Circle, Elizabethtown. Reserve your space by August 13th. Contact Nancy Olsen at 910-862-4591 for more information. Share:

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Judicial candidate filing has begun

The filing period for judicial candidates has begun in North Carolina. The filing period for the judicial races ends at 12 noon on Friday, June 29th. There are two judicial races of local interest. They are the race for the NC Superior Court District 13 seat currently held by incumbent Judge Ola Lewis and the NC District Court Judge District 13 currently held by incumbent Judge Fredrick Gore. To view the complete of candidates who have filed, thus far, click here. Share:

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18 More Homeowners to Get Housing Help to Recover from Matthew

State Awards Mitigation Grants to Get Matthew Survivors into More Resilient Homes Raleigh – NC Emergency Management today announced that 18 homeowners across central and eastern North Carolina soon will receive $2.7 million in federal and state funds to acquire, elevate or reconstruct homes damaged by Hurricane Matthew. “This latest round of funding assistance is welcome news for families who need help rebuilding their homes and getting their lives back to normal,” said state Emergency Management Director Mike Sprayberry. “We are very pleased to see this funding become available and we’re doing all we can to get it to people in need.” This is the fifth award of Hazard Mitigation …..

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NC DOT

Public Input Sought on Fayetteville Outer Loop Segment

Open house will be June 26 in Parkton FAYETTEVILLE – The N.C. Department of Transportation is inviting people to review updated design plans for constructing the section of the Fayetteville Outer Loop between Interstate 95 in Robeson County and just south of Camden Road in Cumberland County. An informal open house will be from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday at Camp Rockfish, 226 Camp Rockfish Road, which is in Hoke County north of Parkton. There, NCDOT representatives will show updated design mapsfor the project, answer questions and take comments on constructing this 6.1-mile segment of the loop, which will be part of the future Interstate 295. Construction is scheduled to start by the end of this year and finish by the …..

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Fundraiser planned for Saturday

A barbecue chicken plate fundraiser is planned for Saturday, June 23rd, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the White Oak Community Building.  Proceeds go to benefit Sandy Hunsinger during her recovery. Cost is $9 per plate and all fixings are included. For more information call Caroline Rising at 910-874-1285. Share:

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Chamber conducts 66th annual banquet, awards ceremony

By Erin Smith The Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce conducted their 66th annual banquet on Tuesday evening at Lu Mil Vineyard. During the banquet, David Clark was honored with the award of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. The award was presented to Clark by long-time friend and Elizabethtown Mayor Sylvia Campbell. She read aloud from the letter which was submitted to the Governor’s Office requesting the honor be bestowed upon Clark. “He is without a doubt one of the finest gentlemen I have ever had the pleasure of knowing,” said Campbell. She said he is active in the Elizabethtown Baptist Church where he has served as a …..

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West Bladen Betas score wins at National Senior Beta Club Convention

Contributed The West Bladen High School’s Betas have been working hard preparing for the National Senior Beta Club Convention. Cierra Byrd and Autumn Brisson are attending and competing at the National Beta Convention in Savannah, Georgia, this week, and their efforts have been rewarded. Congratulations to Cierra Byrd for her National Senior Beta Club Convention recognitions. Byrd won first place in the nation and National Senior Beta Convention Sculpture Champion for her sculpture entry. Her sculpture was also named National Senior Beta Convention 2017-2018 Best of the Show among all visual arts entries at the convention. Brisson won seventh place in the nation with her Fiber Arts entry. Share:

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Dixie Youth Baseball

District 9 DYB Coach-Pitch Tournament: Elizabethtown 14, West Robeson American 0

LUMBERTON –Elizabethtown defeated West Robeson American 14-0 Tuesday night in the District 9 Dixie Youth Baseball Coach-Pitch Tournament. Elizabethtown, the only unbeaten team remaining in the tournament, will play West Robeson National Wednesday night at 6:30 p.m. Omar Powell led off the Elizabethtown first inning with a single, and Devonte Tatum reached base on an error. Ryker Strickland’s ground ball scored Powell, and Tyler Eason walloped a triple that scored Tatum. Brady Marlowe hammered a triple that scored Eason, and Cade Rogers’ fielder’s choice plated Marlowe to push the Elizabethtown lead to 4-0. Seth Faircloth and Fox Sutton smacked singles to start the Elizabethtown second. Jag Gooden reached base on an error that scored Faircloth. …..

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District 2 DYB Coach-Pitch Tournament: Whiteville 11, Bladen County 3

TABOR CITY –Whiteville defeated Bladen County 11-3 Tuesday night to advance to Wednesday’s championship game of the District 2 Dixie Youth Baseball Coach-Pitch Tournament. Bladen County finished third in the tournament and both of their losses were to unbeaten Whiteville. Due to a quirk with the byes in the DYB bracket Bladen County had to play Whiteville again instead of once-beaten Riegelwood. Riegelwood advanced to the championship game. Bladen County grabbed a 3-0 lead in the top of the first inning. Chase Bryan belted a single and scored when Caleb Parnell hammered a double. Samuel Cummings slammed a double that scored Parnell, and Ashton Davis knocked in Cummings with a double. Whiteville answered with …..

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Elizabethtown Coach-Pitch Supplemental All Stars

  Elizabethtown Coach-Pitch Supplemental All Stars are as follows: Front Row: Gauge King, Aiden Trinidad, Taylor King, Colt Lewis, Gaston Russ, Prince McKoy Second Row: Hutch Glenn, Noah German, Jaylen Smith, Rex Register, Lathan Cashwell, Chandler Wall Coaches: Brandon King, Rich Glenn, B.J. Pait, Head Coach Charles Lewis Photo courtesy of Vanessa G Share:

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Heat Advisory issued for Bladen County for second day

The National Weather Service Office in Wilmington has issued a heat advisory for Bladen County from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. today (Wednesday, June 20th). Heat index values are expected to reach 108 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. Temperatures are forecast to reach 96 degrees with a 40 percent chance of thunderstorms. If you work outdoors, wear light colored clothing, drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in shaded areas or air conditioned rooms. Make sure livestock and pets have access to shade and fresh drinking water. Share:

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving for June 20

Elizabethtown-White Lake Chamber’s Annual Meeting drew a large crowd last night (Tuesday) at Lu Mil Vineyard.  Longtime businessman David Clark, of Elizabethtown, received the most prestigious award, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine.  Check BladenOnline’s news page for more information about local residents and businesses recognized for their service to others. The Chamber is so important to the area.  The first of three ‘Alive After Five” Sunset Jams will be held Thursday, June 21st, at Goldston’s Beach from 6 PM to 9 PM.  Music by Imitations, it’s free and all are invited.  Another Chamber function. White Lake water is much improved.  Lake and state officials have learned a great deal about the cause of change …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History for June 20

1782 – Congress approves Great Seal of the United States of America and the bald eagle as its symbol. 1840 – Samuel Morse patents his telegraph. 1864 – Battle of Kinston, North Carolina and Battle of Abingdon, Virginia. 1895 – 1st female PhD from an American University, earned by Caroline Willard Baldwin (in science) at Cornell University. 1911 – National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) incorporates (NY). 1930 – 65th British Golf Open: Bobby Jones shoots a 291 at Hoylake. 1936 – Jesse Owens of US sets 100 meter record at 10.2. 1944 – Congress charters Central Intelligence Agency. 1950 – Joe DiMaggio’s 2,000th hit, Yanks beat …..

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Congressman Pittenger on Salisbury VA Nursing Home Report: ‘Alarming and offensive’

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) issued this statement after reviewing a USA Today report uncovering very low ratings for a nursing home facility run by the Salisbury VA Medical Center: “Throughout my time in Congress, I have regularly and consistently received complaints about care and service at Salisbury VA medical facilities.  This new report by USA Today, if accurate, is alarming and offensive to all veterans, and follows other previous reviews with highly unfavorable outcomes. “My expectation is that the new Salisbury VA Director will ‘inspect for what you expect’ and take corrective action.  Last year, I helped pass VA accountability legislation to make it easier to fire and demote incompetent employees. …..

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Sincere Smith Signs Contract With Yankees

TAMPA, FL – East Bladen baseball star Sincere Smith signed a rookie contract with the New York Yankees Monday at the Yankees facility in Tampa. It has been a whirlwind last ten days for Smith who was drafted in the 32nd round of the Major League Baseball draft by the Yankees then graduated from East Bladen High Saturday before traveling to Tampa Sunday to sign and begin his professional baseball career. Yankee scout Billy Godwin who played a key role in the Yankees drafting of Smith was on hand for the signing. Smith will join the roster of the Gulf Coach League Yankees and is expected to be used as an outfielder. Share:

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11-12 Fast-Pitch Softball: Force 5, Thunder 4

ELIZABETHTOWN – The Force edged the Thunder 5-4 Monday in Bladen Recreation 11-12 Fast-Pitch Softball action. The Thunder grabbed the early lead with a pair of first inning runs. Lena Trinidad singled and scored on Kaden Thurman’s fielder’s choice. Catcher Holland Davis cracked a single and raced home on Marlie Walters’ double. The Force rallied with 3 runs in the second inning to take a 3-2 lead. Morgan Benson was hit by a pitch, and Emmee Ward laced a single to centerfield that scored Benson. Kennedy Carroll drove in Ward with a single, and Carroll scooted home on Reagan Moore’s fielder’s choice. Two runs in the third inning padded the Force lead …..

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North Carolinians with homes damaged by Hurricane Matthew urged to apply for help

Application Centers remain open in four counties, with more opening soon Raleigh – North Carolinians whose homes were damaged by Hurricane Matthew should apply for help through application centers, state emergency management officials urged today. With more than $650 million already spent on Hurricane Matthew recovery – and more help on the way – North Carolinians whose homes were damaged by the storm are encouraged to complete applications as soon as possible for help through the Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CBDG-DR) program. “Rebuilding after a disaster is a long-term process and we know help can never come fast enough for those in need,” State Emergency Management Director …..

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Senate passes Pittenger national security bill, House approval expected soon

WASHINGTON – On Monday, the United States Senate gave strong bipartisan approval to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes key provisions drafted by Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) and Senate Majority Whip John Cornyn (R-TX) to block China from acquiring sensitive national security technology. Pittenger and Cornyn’s Foreign Investment Risk Review Modernization Act, which was included in the Senate NDAA, modernizes and strengthens the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States. “Our laws have not kept pace with the global economy.  Right now, the gate is wide open for China to steal our sensitive national security technology through loopholes and other strategic business deals,” said Congressman Pittenger.  “Senator Cornyn and I have been working for …..

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Update 4: Information Regarding June 19 Staff Assault at Central Prison

RALEIGH –Central Prison Unit Manager Brent Soucier remains in stable condition this morning after he was assaulted by two inmates on June 19. Inmate Jaquan Lane (#1449047) was returned to Central Prison last night after receiving outside medical treatment.  Andrew Ellis (# 0782014) remains in a local hospital for non-life threatening injuries. At approximately 12:30 p.m. on June 19, Lane and Ellis assaulted Soucier with a homemade weapon. Soucier, 44, was taken to a local hospital for treatment for a serious injury. Soucier has worked for DPS for 19 years. Lane and Ellis were also transported to a local hospital. The assault happened in a housing area at the prison. That housing …..

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Commissioners adopt budget

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Board of Commissioners adopted the fiscal year 2018-19 budget on Monday night. The budget carries a cost of living adjustment for county employees. There will be no property tax increase. The budget does increase funding to the Bladen County Board of Education over this year’s budget. Bladen County Commissioner Charles Ray Peterson made a motion to adopt the budget including a 2 percent increase for schools and a one time allotment of $251,000 to the school system. The board voted unanimously to adopt the 2018-19 budget. “I want to thank the commissioners for working together on the budget,” said Commissioner Chairman Ray Britt. He …..

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Duke Energy Site Readiness Program a win for economic development, jobs in the Carolinas

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Duke Energy has selected four properties in North Carolina and South Carolina for participation in the first half of its 2018 Site Readiness Program to enhance the readiness of the sites for business and industrial development. The Site Readiness Program has helped prepare properties that have won 29 major projects in the Carolinas since the program started in 2005, resulting in more than 6,200 new jobs and nearly $7 billion in capital investment. Through the program, Duke Energy identifies high-quality industrial sites and partners with county officials and local economic development professionals to develop a strategy for providing water, sewer, natural gas and electricity to the properties. “Economic development is a team sport …..

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From The Hill: America will not forget about Pastor Andrew Brunson

By Sen. Thom Tillis Andrew Brunson is a loving father, husband, and Presbyterian pastor who has been sharing the word of the Gospel to the people of Turkey for the last 20 years. In October 2016, Brunson was arrested by the Turkish government, accused of being an American spy and terrorist who helped the plotters of the failed coup attempt against the Turkish government earlier that summer. This spring, days before the start of Pastor Brunson’s trial, I traveled to Izmir, Turkey to meet with Pastor Brunson at the prison where he was being held. It was immediately evident that Brunson was not in good health. Although he has been …..

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Teacher pleas with Commissioners for funding to keep teachers’ jobs

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Board of Commissioners met on Monday night and heard a request from Cynthia Chisholm, a teacher at Bladen Lakes School, for more funding for teachers’ positions. Chisholm reminded the Commissioners that the Board of Education has closed Booker T. Washington School and seven teachers have been riffed as a result of the closing. “Those people did not know they were going to be let go. They knew (they were being let go) with four days left to school,” said Chisholm. She said the teachers affected were new teachers and they brought a lot of new ideas to their respective classrooms. Chisholm said the group …..

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Heat Advisory in effect for Bladen County

By Erin Smith The National Weather Service Office in Wilmington has issued a heat advisory for Bladen County from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. Heat index values are expected to reach between 105 to 108 degrees, according to Meteorologist Joshua Weiss. Temperatures are forecast to reach 98 degrees with a 20 percent chance of thunderstorms. According to the National Weather Service office, “A Heat Advisory means that a period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible.” If you have outdoor activities planned or if you work outside drink plenty of water and take frequent …..

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Special Scholarship Presentations Made to West Bladen Seniors

Othella Santee Heflin and Becky Heflin presented scholarships to three West Bladen High School seniors on Tuesday, June 12th, in the media center. Glorimar Cuz Pagan received a $500 scholarship in honor of Rebecca (Becky) Heflin. Glorimar is pursuing a career in nursing. Nakayla Pridgen received a $500 scholarship in honor of Gladysteen Pait. Mrs. Pait’s son, Matthew, and his family, were on hand to receive the scholarship for Nakayla in her absence due to other commitments. Nakayla will also pursue a career in nursing. Ricardo Vazquez Ramirez was given a $500 scholarship in memory of Eddie Heflin for welding career interests. West Bladen was proud to have Mrs. Othella …..

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East Bladen’s Caleb Strait Receives Shrine Bowl Ring

East Bladen’s All-State lineman Caleb Strait received his Shrine Bowl ring Saturday at East Bladen’s graduation ceremony. Strait who started at offensive guard for the winning North Carolina team in the Shrine Bowl graduated Saturday and will continue his academic and athletic career at Louisburg. Share:

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District 2 DYB Coach-Pitch Supplemental Tournament: Elizabethtown 18, Whiteville 8

TABOR CITY –Elizabethtown rolled to an 18-8 victory over Whiteville Monday night to advance to Wednesday’s championship game of the District 2 Dixie Youth Baseball Coach-Pitch Supplemental Tournament. Elizabethtown jumped in front with 2 runs in the first inning. Singles by Prince McKoy, Lathan Cashwell and Noah German loaded the bases, before Aiden Trinidad slammed a double that scored McKoy and Cashwell. After Whiteville closed to within 2-1, Elizabethtown pulled away with 7 runs in the second inning. Hits by Gauge King, Hutch Glenn and Rex Register loaded the bases, and Chandler Wall ripped a double that scored Gauge King and Glenn. McKoy drove in Register with a single, before Cashwell slugged a triple …..

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Dixie Youth Baseball

District 2 DYB Coach-Pitch Supplemental Tournament: Columbus County 9, Bladen County 8

TABOR CITY – Columbus County edged Bladen County 9-8 Monday night in an elimination game in the District 2 Dixie Youth Baseball Coach-Pitch Supplemental Tournament. The Bladen team scored 4 runs in the first inning. Amare Campbell ripped a single to left, and Zee Pone walloped a home run. Cooper Mills cracked a single, and Devan Haire blasted a home run to leftfield. Campbell hammered a triple in the third inning and Pone knocked him in with a single. Dylan McLaurin led off the Bladen County fourth inning with a single, and Sha’moni McNair hammered a triple that scored McLaurin. Aaron Rogers followed with a single that scored McNair. Singles by Campbell, …..

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