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Category Posts : Announcements

NC DOT

Section of Hallsboro Road to Close in Columbus County

Closure at U.S. 74 and 76 needed for new interchange WHITEVILLE – Starting Monday, Aug. 6, the N.C. Department of Transportation will close Hallsboro Road at U.S. 74 and 76 to begin constructing an interchange east of Whiteville where trees have been cleared for the project. The closure means traffic on Hallsboro Road will be unable to access U.S. 74 and 76, and vice versa at that location. A detour will direct drivers onto N.C. 214, Red Hill Road (U.S. 74 Business) and Whitehall Road. When completed by May 2020, the interchange will have a bridge that carries Hallsboro Road traffic over the highway, as well as ramps allowing traffic to …..

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Professional Educator Preparation and Standards Commission Meets Thursday, August 9

The Professional Educator Preparation and Standards Commission (PEPSC) will meet Thursday, Aug. 9, at 9 a.m. in the 7th Floor Board Room, Education Building, 301 N. Wilmington Street, Raleigh. The agenda is available online.  The meeting will be audio streamed for those who cannot attend in person. Questions regarding this meeting may be directed to NCDPI Communications at (919) 807-3450. Share:

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Friendship Baptist Church to hold Revival

Friendship Baptist Church will hold Revival services beginning Sunday night, October 14, through October 17 with Rev. Bradley Tatum of Forest Lawn Baptist Church in Tabor City.  There will be special singing nightly and we invite everyone to come and worship with us.  Sunday night services will begin at 6:30 pm and Monday – Wednesday night services will begin at 7 pm nightly. Friendship Baptist Church is located at 1989 Bull Street of Garland.  For more information, please contact Rev. Gary McMillan at 910-876-1148. Share:

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Van Oriental Foods Inc. Recalls Pork Egg Rolls

Van Oriental Foods Inc., a Dallas, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 10,385 pounds of heat treated but not fully cooked and not shelf stable pork egg rolls that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically soft plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The pork egg rolls were produced on May 30, 2018. The products have a shelf life of 12 months if frozen and 11 days if refrigerated. The following product is subject to recall: 5.4-oz. packages containing two pieces of “VAN’S KITCHEN 2 EGG ROLLS PORK GRAB AND GO” with lot code 18150, a Julian date of 18150A and various “FRESHNESS …..

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North Carolina State Highway Patrol Awarded International Accreditation by CALEA

Raleigh, NC – The North Carolina State Highway Patrol was awarded national accreditation on July 28, 2018 by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). Following a year-long self-assessment phase and a meticulous site-based assessment of community engagement, policy, procedures, equipment and facilities by CALEA assessors, Colonel Glenn M. McNeill, Jr., First Sergeant T. M. Koehler and NCSHP Accreditation Manager Michael Dellinger attended the CALEA conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Each agency being reviewed goes before CALEA’s 21-member Board of Commissioners where the commission reviews all findings and determines the agencies’ accreditation status. The evening of the hearing, during the celebration banquet, CALEA President Craig Webre and Executive …..

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Bladen Community College Trustees to meet

The Bladen Community College Board of Trustees will meet on Tuesday, August 7, 2018, at 5:30 P.M. in the board room in the Essic Williams Administration Building (building 10) on the Dublin campus. For more information, contact Melissa Hester at 910-879-5502. Share:

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Carolina’s Best 2018 Finalists

Pastor Kevin L. Joyner, Sr. of Kevin Joyner & Men of Standard and the Minister of Music at Baldwin Branch Missionary Baptist Church of Elizabethtown, NC has been selected in the top three gospel groups for WIDU Carolina Best out of 100 quartets.  The competition continues 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 11, 2018 at the Crown Coliseum, Fayetteville NC.  He and the Men of Standard will compete for best gospel group.  Rev. Joyner is pastor of River Of Life Outreach Center, Chadbourn NC. Share:

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Public Meeting

Compassionate Friends Border Belt Chapter to meet

The Compassionate Friends Border Belt Chapter, serving the parents of both Bladen and Columbus counties, will hold a meeting on the First Friday of the month at the Bladen County Senior Center in Elizabethtown. The August meeting will be Friday, August 3, at 3 PM. Any adult who has experienced a loss of their child, grandchild or sibling is welcome to attend. Time has proven that with caring and sharing comes healing. We always focus on helping each other. Chapter members affirm that “When we get together, we help one another” and we find strength and solace. Together we discover that ‘We Do Not Walk Alone’. For more information, contact …..

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Congressman Rouzer to host Opioid Symposium Monday

US Congressman David Rounder will be hosting an Opioid Symposium for the 7th Congressional District on Monday night in Wilmington at the Coastline Convention Center from 6 until 8 p.m. The symposium will be live streamed on Congressman Rouzer’s Facebook page and You Tube page. The symposium will be comprised of four different panels for discussion of best practices as it relates to stigma, treatment and resources, prevention and law enforcement. Those wishing to attend the Wilmington symposium can RSVP by clicking here. Share:

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Back to School Blast planned

As the lazy days of summer are winding to a close, many parents are beginning to think about sending their children back  to school. To help parents with the many tasks involved of preparing for back to school such as purchasing school uniforms, school supplies and haircuts, a Back to School Blast has been planned for Saturday, August 18, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Cape Fear Farmers Market in Elizabethtown. The Back to School Blast will offer free haircuts, free uniform exchanges, health screenings, and more. For more information call Billie Hall at 910-862-2066 or Pastor Brock Meyer at 919-606-6350.   Share:

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Recall: Taco Bell Con Queso Cheese Dip Recalled After Botulism Concerns

By Erin Smith The Kraft Heinz Company issued a voluntary recall for its Taco Bell brand Con Queso Mild Cheese Dip, over concerns regarding Botulism contamination. The recall affects approximately 7,000 cases of the dip, according to the company website. The release issued by the company reads, “As a precaution, approximately 7,000 cases of Taco Bell Salsa Con Queso Mild Cheese Dip are being voluntarily recalled because the affected product is showing signs of product separation which can lead to a potential health hazard. This could create conditions that could allow for the growth of Clostridium botulinum (C. botulinum), a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are …..

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State Board to host public demonstration of voting equipment

RALEIGH, N.C. – The State Board of Elections and Ethics Enforcement on Friday(July 27) will host a public demonstration of all voting equipment under consideration for certification in North Carolina.  The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday at the State Board office in the Dobbs Building, 430 N. Salisbury St., Raleigh.  The purpose of this demonstration is for members of the State Board and the public to witness voting systems demonstrations and have their questions and concerns addressed by the vendors. This demonstration fulfills the requirements of Section 3.5.10 of the Elections Systems Certification Program adopted by the State Board in 2017. “This is a major step in the process of reviewing new equipment …..

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Clarkton Public Library will host a Harry Potter Birthday Celebration on Tuesday, July 31

Clarkton, NC — Attention wizards, witches, and muggles ages 10 & up! You are invited to join the Bladen County Public Library system for a free, magical fun-filled evening celebrating Harry Potter’s Birthday on Tuesday, July 31, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Clarkton Public Library located at 10413 N. College St., Clarkton, NC 28433. Partygoers will enjoy Harry Potter themed entertainment, activities, games, refreshments, and crafts. Here are just some of the festivities guests can enjoy at the party: +Make a magical craft +Take a picture in our photo booth +Test your Harry Potter knowledge in our trivia contest* +Come dressed up and enter our costume contest* …..

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Governor Cooper Announces 365 New Financial Services Jobs in Wake County

Arch Capital Group Ltd. (ACGL), a globally diversified financial services group providing insurance, reinsurance and mortgage insurance, will open an operational hub in Raleigh and create 365 new jobs over four years, Governor Roy Cooper announced today. The company will invest $12.9 million in North Carolina by the end of 2019. “Global finance and technology leaders like Arch choose North Carolina because they know our world-class universities and community colleges prepare talented students to succeed in those industries,” Governor Cooper said. “I look forward to the new opportunities Arch will bring to Wake County.” Arch currently employs approximately 575 people in North Carolina, and this project will bring several operational …..

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Edward Luke Thurston

August 2, 1954 – July 22, 2018 Edward Luke Thurston, 63, of Oak Island, has transitioned from the Earthly plane. He was an islander from birth, an Eagle Scout, a teen-aged heart-throb, a roadie, a beach bum, an electrician, a ship’s Captain, a pirate, a tile mason, a brother, a father, a son, a cousin, an uncle, a grandpa, and a friend. Ed lived each day to its fullest.  He gave of himself, whenever he saw someone with a need. He shared what he had and was quick with a joke to lighten a heavy mood. He was a blessing to all around him. He was born at Myrtle Beach, …..

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James “Tommy” Hall , Jr. 

May 20, 1961 – July 21, 2018 Elizabethtown, North Carolina James “Tommy” Hall Jr., age 57, of Elizabethtown passed away on Saturday, July 21, 2018. He is survived by his parents James T. “Hooker” and Martha Lou Hall of Dublin, wife Billie Sue Priest Hall of the home, son: James Thomas “Trey” Hall III (Cindy) of Elizabethtown; daughter: Morgan E. Hall (Javiar) of Elizabethtown; sister: Karen Brisson Hall Lee (Bill) of Elizabethtown, three grandchildren: Demia Bradleigh Smith, Drake Bradyn Washington, and Ashton Liliana Hall. The family will receive friends from 6-8 pm on Tuesday, July 24th at Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home in Elizabethtown. A funeral service will be held on …..

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Phillip Long Watson

Mr. Phillip Long Watson, 58, of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida, formerly of Fayetteville, NC passed away on Tuesday, July 17, 2018. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Arthur and Juanita Watson. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Myra Watson of the home; a daughter, Melissa Britt-Kennedy and husband, Jesse of Ft. Walton Beach, Fla.; two brothers, William A. “Bill” Watson and wife, Carolyn of White Lake and Robert “Bobby” Watson of Charlotte; a granddaughter, Emma Kennedy of Ft. Walton Beach; a special great-niece, Ayana McLean of Ft. Walton Beach; nephew, Donovan Watson of Washington, DC; and niece, Kerry Watson of White Lake. Phil was a …..

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UNCW Board of Trustees Elects McNeill New Chair

The University of North Carolina Wilmington Board of Trustees elected a new chair for 2018-19, Whiteville native and businessman Ronald B. McNeill, a member of the board since 2011. He succeeds Wilma W. Daniels, who served as board chair for two years. Mr. McNeill is the vice president and CFO of Liberty Healthcare Services and a North Carolina State University graduate. “I’m honored to get the opportunity to serve as chair of the UNCW Board of Trustees,” McNeill said. “It is exciting to be a part of this great university’s tremendous growth, pursuit of academic excellence and continued impact within the local community and the state.” Henry L. (Hal) Kitchin, Jr. , a Wilmington …..

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General Surgeon joins SeHealth

General Surgeon DuBose Medlock, Jr., M.D., has joined Southeastern Surgical Center, an affiliate of Southeastern Health. Dr. Medlock earned his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston in 1986. He completed a surgical residency at Tulane University Affiliated Hospitals in New Orleans, La., in 1991. He is board certified in general surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Medlock is experienced in a broad range of surgical procedures including: diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy; open laparotomy; repair of abdominal hernias; comprehensive diagnosis and surgical treatment of breast, thyroid, and GI malignancies; thyroid and parathyroid surgery; and upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy. He …..

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Caregiver resources available for grandparents

Caregiver resources are available for grandparents who have their grandchildren residing with them. Bladen County Division on Aging Director Kelly Robeson said the Lumber River Council of Government offers resources and caregiver training classes. Robeson said it is a requirement for the children to reside solely with their grandparents. If you are interested in obtaining Caregiver Resources or participating in Caregiver Classes, contact the Bladen County Division on Aging at 910-872-6330 or stop by their offices located at 608 McLeod Street in Elizabethtown. Share:

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Rouzer announces Opioid Symposium

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Rouzer announced details for the 7th District Opioid Symposium which builds upon his work to raise awareness, decrease the stigma, and inform members of the community on best practices throughout the district in an effort to curb the opioid epidemic. “The 7th District of North Carolina is comprised of nine counties with a wide range of communities from urban to very rural.  Throughout the district there are unique challenges presented by the opioid epidemic with a variety of initiatives that have been taken to address them.  The objective of the 7th District Opioid Symposium is to gather the best and brightest from across Southeastern North Carolina, those who have …..

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Pork industry facing anti-trust lawsuit

By Erin Smith With lawsuits being filed against local hog farmers, the pork industry is facing yet another challenge with a federal anti-trust lawsuit which was filed in June in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. The class-action lawsuit names Argi-Stats Inc., Clemens Food Group LLC, Hormel Foods Corporation, Indiana Packers Corporation, JBS USA, Seaboard Foods LLC, Smithfield Foods Inc., Triumph Foods LLC, Tyson Foods Inc. as defendants. These companies manufacture such familiar brands as Tyson Foods, Hormel, Smithfield, SPAM, Steak-eze, Jimmy Dean, Nathan’s Famous, Sara Lee, Ball Park Franks, Hillshire Farm, Bosco’s, Jennie-O, and others. The lawsuit was filed by the Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro law …..

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Christmas in July to be held at Bladen County Cooperative Extension

If you want to get an early start on your Christmas shopping the Powell-Melvin Agricultural Center will host the annual “Christmas in July” Bazaar and Salad Lunch from 10 a.m. until 2 pm. Lunch includes chicken, pasta, vegetable and fruit salads, bread sticks and a beverage for $5.  Tickets can be purchased at the Extension Office located at 450 Smith Circle in Elizabethtown. There will also be raffle tickets available for themed baskets filled an array of goodies. Vendors will also be available with a variety of items. The funds by the Extension and Community Association ladies go to support scholarships. For more information call 910-862-4591. Share:

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State Board to host public demonstration of voting equipment

RALEIGH, N.C. – Later this month, the State Board of Elections and Ethics Enforcement will host a public demonstration of all voting equipment under consideration for certification in North Carolina. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, July 27, at the State Board office in the Dobbs Building, 430 N. Salisbury St., Raleigh. The purpose of this demonstration is for members of the State Board and the public to witness voting systems demonstrations and have their questions and concerns addressed by the vendors. This demonstration fulfills the requirements of Section 3.5.10 of the Elections Systems Certification Program adopted by the State Board in 2017. “This is a major step in the process …..

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Bladenboro Town Hall

Special Called meeting for Bladenboro Town Board

There will be a special called meeting of the Bladenboro Town board on Monday, July 16th, at 7 p.m. at the Bladenboro Town Hall. The purpose of the meeting is to conduct a pre-treatment administrative hearing for Carrol Poultry’s fine appeal. The company was fined during the town’s July meeting for exceeding their discharge permit.   Share:

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Rural Communities Receive State Grants Attracting 239 New Jobs and More Than $117 Million in Private Investment

Raleigh, N.C. – The North Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) approved 23 grant requests totaling $17,021,540, N.C. Commerce Secretary Anthony M. Copeland announced today. The requests include commitments to create a total of 425 jobs, 186 of which were previously announced. The public investment in these projects will attract $117.6 million in private investment. “As Governor Cooper has emphasized in his ‘Hometown Strong’ initiative, improving infrastructure is critical to the economic success of rural North Carolina communities,” said Secretary Copeland. “Whether they help renovate a building or extend water and sewer lines, the newest grants approved by the Rural Infrastructure Authority will support economic development and job creation across the state.” The North Carolina Department of Commerce’s team …..

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Fundraiser planned for David Johnson

A fundraiser is planned for David Johnson on Saturday, August 4th, at Merritt Brothers located at 8906 NC Highway 41 East near White Lake.  The event will begin at 9 a.m. and last all day. The event will feature bikes, big rigs, cars, trucks and a Jeep Cruise-In. Cost is $10 per entry and trophies will be awarded. There will also be a plate sale, 50-50 Raffle, an auction, a yard sale, bounce houses and more. Al proceeds go to David “Punk” Johnson for medical expenses. He has had a stroke which has left him paralyzed on the left side. Share:

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Duplin Winery Releases Two New Wines

ROSE HILL, N.C. – Duplin Winery releases two all-new muscadine wines this July – Summertime Strut and Carolina Shag. With the addition of Summertime Strut and Carolina Shag to its product list, Duplin Winery has over 40 delicious muscadine wines for its fans to enjoy. Summertime Strut is an aromatic white wine made with early harvest Doreen and Carlos grapes that combine perfectly to offer a modern, fresh and fruity blend. Coastal Shag is a light-bodied red wine with a fruity start and smooth finish. Coastal Shag is made with young Noble grapes that are picked at their earliest sign of ripeness to provide an easy blend with Coastal James grapes. Both wines will now …..

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Special filing period begins Monday for two judgeships

RALEIGH, N.C. – The State Board of Elections and Ethics Enforcement will hold a candidate filing period from noon July 9 to noon July 13 for Superior Court District 19D (Hoke and Moore counties) and District Court District 20A (Montgomery and Stanly counties). Session Law 2018-121 made changes to those districts and required the special filing period. According to the law, “only residents of Montgomery County may be candidates for the additional judge in District Court District 20A in the 2018 election…” Candidates wishing to run for those seats must file their Notice of Candidacy with the State Board and pay a filing fee. (For Superior Court, $1,326; for District Court, $1,167) Candidates may file in person at …..

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Entrepreneurship and Small Business topic of Committee of 100 meeting

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Committee of 100 conducted their annual meeting on Wednesday evening at Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery.  The keynote speaker for the evening was Dr. Barry O’Brien, Dean of and Associate Professor of the UNC-Pembroke School of Business. O’Brien said when he first arrived in July 1, 2016, at UNC-Pembroke the incubator was empty. Now, it is full and 2,500 people per year come to the Center for Entrepreneurship. “We have a program funded by the Kaufman Foundation and I will make this commitment to your downtown incubator when it opens. We’ll provide the coffee and the donuts—what we do with these cups of coffee …..

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Public Meeting

Compassionate Friends Border Belt Chapter announce July meeting

The Compassionate Friends Border Belt Chapter, serving the parents of both Bladen and Columbus counties, now meets in Bladen County at the Bladen County Senior Center, 608 McLeod Street in Elizabethtown. This month we meet on Friday, July 6th, at 3 p.m. Any adult who has experienced a loss of their child, grandchild or sibling is welcome to attend. We meet to share and understand our grief to and help each other. We invite and welcome any parent, grandparent or adult sibling who is interested in attending. Share:

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General Assembly overrides Governor’s veto of NC Farm Bill

By Erin Smith The NC General Assembly completed an override of Governor Roy Cooper’s veto of the NC Farm Bill 2018 on Wednesday morning. The measure will now become law and it will restrict when and how neighbors of farms can file a lawsuit. The NC Senate override vote was 37 for and 9 against on Tuesday and the NC House override vote was 74 for and 45 against on Wednesday morning. The law attempts to modify the State’s right to farm law after a federal court ruling scuttled the law and removed protections for farms. One provision of the NC Farm Bill states that a plaintiff may not receive …..

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Three New Application Centers Open to Help North Carolinians Recover from Hurricane Matthew

People with homes damaged by Matthew can call 2-1-1 to begin applying for help RALEIGH – Three new Hurricane Matthew Housing Recovery Application Centers will open June 28 to help hurricane survivors whose homes were damaged by the devastating storm. The newest ReBuild NC Application Centers are located in Windsor, Fair Bluff and Kinston and will join four existing centers in Fayetteville, Tarboro, Lumberton and Goldsboro to help people apply for financial help to repair or rebuild their homes. The help with housing repairs, homeowner reimbursement and other housing-related issues is made possible by North Carolina’s Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program which is funded by the federal government …..

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Bladen County Solid Waste announces July 4th operating schedule

Contributed Bladen County Solid Waste Hours of Operation for Wednesday, July 4th – Independence Day: The Mercer Mill Road Convenience Site will be operating on its normal schedule, 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM. All other convenience sites will be closed. The Transfer Station will be closed in observance of the holiday. Normal operations shall resume on Thursday, July 5th. Share:

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Public Meeting

Reservations being accepted for Committee of 100 annual meeting

Contributed Reservations are still being accepted for the Bladen County Committee of 100 Annual Meeting and dinner on Wednesday, June 27th.  The meeting will begin with a social time at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. in Gallery Ballroom of the Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery in Elizabethtown.  Dr. Barry O’Brien, Dean and Associate Professor, UNC-Pembroke School of Business, will be speaking on “Entrepreneurship and Small Business.” There will be no cost for the dinner for members, but other interested persons can attend at a cost of $15 each.  Contact Linda at 910-645-2292 by 3 p.m. on Monday, June 25th, to register for the Annual Meeting or RSVP to lclark@bladenco.org. Share:

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Madonna Thunder Hawk to Attend Inaugural Lumbee Film Festival with North Carolina Premiere of ​Warrior Women

Filmmaker Christina D. King will also be in attendance  Wilmington, NC — Madonna Thunder Hawk (Oohenumpa Lakota) is confirmed to attend the first ever Lumbee Film Festival with the film Warrior Women, Saturday, June 23, 2018 at the UNC Pembroke Entrepreneurship Incubator. This inaugural festival showcases bold, original new films made by American Indians, especially members of the Lumbee Tribe living in North Carolina and across the United States. Tickets are free, and guests are encouraged to RSVP at cucalorus.org/lumbee-film-festival/​. Since the 1970s Madonna Thunder Hawk has been an instrumental voice in the battles for Native sovereignty, and remains vocal in her advocacy for implementing self-determination in tribal youth and …..

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Gospel artist Euclid Gray to perform

The famous gospel artist Euclid Gray will be featured in the Blue & Silver Banquet on Saturday, July 14, at the Faith Temple Evangelist Center in Clarkton. Dinner will be served at the banquet but seating is limited for the event. Tickets will cost $20 and to purchase the tickets and for more info call LoWanda at (910) 988-4475. Formal attire required.   Share:

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Baldwin Branch MBC holds recognitions

The Baldwin Branch Missionary Baptist Church in Elizabethtown recently held recognitions for Mothers of the Year, Cadet Kieara Porter and the 2018 graduates. Mothers-of-the-Year who were recognized were  Ardenlian “Dean” Jessup and Hilda F. Cromartie.  Ardenlian Jessup was selected due to her enthusiasm and effectiveness in all that she does as a member.  She is dedicated to the ushers ministry and the United Voices Choir.  Hilda Cromartie is a very committed mother.  She is extremely friendly, outgoing and a friend to all that attend the worship services during her ushering experience.  She is known for her magnificent and famous “chicken salad”.  Theses are a just a few of their wonderful and brilliant qualities. Cadet Kieara …..

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Public Meeting

Bladen County Committee of 100 Annual Meeting

The Bladen County Committee of 100, Inc. will hold their Annual Meeting and dinner at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 27th, in the Gallery Ballroom of the Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery in Elizabethtown.  Our speaker this year will be Dr. Barry O’Brien, Dean and Associate Professor, UNC-Pembroke School of Business. Dr. O’Brien will be speaking on “Entrepreneurship and Small Business.”   The Committee of 100 is a non-profit development corporation which partners with the Bladen County Economic Development Commission to help ensure that sustained economic growth occurs within the county.  Every citizen who is concerned about the economic well-being of this area is encouraged to join.  The annual membership fee is $100 for an individual and …..

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Maggie Lillie Campbell Baldwin

Maggie Lillie Campbell Baldwin, 84, formerly of Clarkton, passed on June 5, 2018, at her home in Newark, Delaware. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 16, 2018, at 1 p.m. at Pierce’s Chapel AME Zion Church with Pastor Johnas Freeman, Pastor Phil Davenport, eulogist, Wilmington Christian Center Church in Wilmington, Delaware. Burial will follow in the Jones Cemetery in Clarkton. Viewing will be held on Friday, June 15, 2018, from 1 until 8 p.m. and one hour priori to the service at the church. She is survived by two aunts, Ruby Coatney Devane and Lula McKoy; one brother James Campbell; two sisters, Lizzie Brown and Magdalene Mitchell; daughters, …..

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Elizabethtown library to open late tomorrow

The main branch of the Bladen County Public Library in Elizabethtown will have a late opening tomorrow. The main branch of the library will open at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, June 12. This is for the safety of library patrons during the installation of new carpet close to the front entrance. Share:

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Work taking shape at former post office location

By Erin Smith The site of the former Elizabethtown Post Office has become a hub of activity once more. The building is being transformed into a small business incubator to help local entrepreneurs get started. The small business incubator, which was undertaken by Bladen’s Bloomin’ Agri-Industrial, was designed to house a small business temporarily until it grows large enough to move to another larger location in town.  Workers are expected to begin framing the individual office spaces this week, said Bladen County Economic Development Director Chuck Heustess. “We’ve been running into a lot of unknowns. For example, we’ve had to rework the plumbing and we had some structural issues that had …..

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Major (RET) Conrad Wayne Davis

Conrad Wayne Davis, age 83, of Enterprise, AL, passed away Sunday, June 10, 2018 in Medical Center Enterprise. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, June 15, 2018 at Hillcrest Baptist Church with Dr. Michael Mynatt officiating. Burial will follow in Meadowlawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 14th from 4:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. at Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory. Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, care of Linda Andress, 400 Gibson Street, Enterprise, AL 36330 or to Hillcrest Baptist Church Building Fund, 500 Alberta Street, Enterprise, AL 36330. He retired from the U. S. Army as a Major after serving 20 …..

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Update: Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office searching for missing teen; Found Safe

by Erin Smith Update: A missing Brunswick County teen has been found safe. READ MORE The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a missing teen. Jessica Marie Millis, 17, was last seen leaving her residence on Potterfield Road in Winnabow on foot at approximately 1:30 p.m. Sunday wearing a multicolored striped T-shirt and cut-off jean shorts. Millis is described as standing approximately 5 feet 5inches in height and weighing 130 pounds with light brown/blond colored hair and blue eyes. Anyone with information should contact Brunswick County Sheriff’s Det. Boynton at ‭910-398-5492. ‬   Share:

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State Board Recognizes Constitution Party as Official Political Party

RALEIGH, N.C. – The Bipartisan State Board of Elections & Ethics Enforcement voted unanimously on Wednesday to recognize the Constitution Party of North Carolina as the state’s newest political party.   That means voters in North Carolina can register as unaffiliated or with any of the following parties: Constitution, Democratic, Green, Libertarian or Republican. It also means the Constitution Party may nominate candidates for the November 2018 general election.   The State Board is modifying voter registration forms to add the newly recognized party. Until then, voters may register with the Constitution Party by checking the “Other” box and writing “Constitution” on the line in the “Political Party Affiliation” section of the voter registration …..

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Steak plate fundraiser planned

A Curtis Jackson Steak Plate Fundraiser will be ​​​conducted on Friday, June 29th, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. sponsored by Mr. James Shaw.  Call (910) 549-7856 or (910) 872-4726 for ticket information.  Plates will include steak, potato, beans, dessert and drink.  It will be held on the grounds of WBLA 1440 AM da Branch Radio Station located at 512 Peanut Road in Elizabethtown.   Share:

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SCSJ Statement Regarding Proposed North Carolina Voter ID Constitutional Amendment 

RALEIGH, N.C. – Earlier today, North Carolina Speaker of the House Rep. Tim Moore introduced HB 1092, a constitutional amendment that would require voters in the state to present photo identification before voting.  If the legislation passes both chambers of the General Assembly by a three-fifths margin, the amendment would go on the November ballot. North Carolina held one election (the May 2016 primary) with a requirement for voters to show photo identification after the General Assembly passed HB 589 in 2013.  In that one election, many eligible North Carolina voters were unduly burdened and disenfranchised. House Bill 589, including a photo identification requirement for voters, was struck down in July 2016 …..

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Bladen County 4-H offering STEAM activities this summer

Bladen County 4-H will be offering “Growing 4-H: Full STEAM Ahead” for school aged children beginning June 25th and continuing through August 3rd. The program will consist of free STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities for those who are participating in the Summer Feeding program hosted by the Bladen County Schools. Activities will take place from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. For more information, contact Stacie Kinlaw at (910) 862-4591 or email at stacie_kinlaw@ncsu.edu Share:

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Upcoming Events

Events for Bladen County residents

By Dora Brogdon This Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. the Mother County Genealogical Society will be meeting at the Bladenboro Historical Society Building. Bonnie (Bridger) Mittelmaier will be the speaker for the event and will be talking about “Back To England, Digging Bridger Root”. Also on Saturday, the First Missionary Baptist Church will be hosting the Hammond Creek Fun Day. Saturday evening Hickory Grove Baptist Church and the Bladenboro Benefit Committee will be sponsoring a Chicken & Rice Plate benefit for Jessica Allen Ludlum. The fundraiser will begin at 11 a.m. and all proceeds will go to benefit Ludlum. Each plate will cost a donation and bake sale items will be available. Local talent …..

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Worship Without Walls is back

Worship Without Walls is back at Mt. Zion AME Zion Church in Elizabethtown. On Friday, June 8, please come pray for the community with us at 6 p.m. as we walk! On Saturday June 9, from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. we will have our Sole-2-Soul Extravaganza which will feature booths by Legal Aid, Employment Office, Cape Fear Valley Hospice, and many other Agencies will be present. There will be games and free food. On Sunday, June 10,  at 10 a.m. we will have our Worship Service in the church parking area. The guest preacher will be Pastor Jared I. Lewis. Everyone is encouraged to come out for this event. …..

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Big Blue Stores to mark 40th anniversary

By Erin Smith Big Blue Stores is gearing up to celebrate 40 years in business this weekend. The Big Blue Stores are planning a special sale event for Friday through Sunday. “Our 40th anniversary means the world to us. Being in business for several decades is a major accomplishment and gives us an opportunity to thank our customers and our employees,” said Tim Clifton, General Manager of Big Blue Stores in North Carolina. Clifton said the Big Blue Stores in North Carolina have been locally owned and operated for 40 years and the employee who set the store in 1978 continues to work at the Big Blue Store in Clinton …..

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Federal Grant Continues Support for Troops to Teachers Program  

North Carolina’s long-established Troops to Teachers program has secured a grant of more than $800,000 to continue its outreach efforts to assist service members in becoming teachers in the public schools.   The five-year grant from the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) will provide continued support to a program that has placed nearly 1,200 teachers in classrooms across the state since it was launched in 1994. Federal funding for state-level Troops to Teachers programs was shifted to a grant-based system in 2017. Previously, funding was provided under agreements with participating state agencies to recruit and counsel veterans interested in teaching careers.   State Superintendent …..

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Summer Sports Camps available

The Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church is offering Summer Sports Camps for children from Kindergarten through 6th grade. Activities include swimming, arts and crafts, bowling, hiking, music, skating and more. Cost is $35. for more information or to sign your child up for camp, call 910-862-3736.     Share:

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Lemonade stand for a cause

By Erin Smith Two civic minded young ladies will have a lemonade stand at Goldston’s Beach at White Lake on Friday, June 8th, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to raise money for cancer. Lauren Womble Thomas said her daughter and a friend have decided to raise money for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer. Molly and Anna were seeking a way to serve and give back to the community. Thomas said a teacher at Elizabethtown Christian Academy, where the girls attend classes, told them about Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. According to Thomas, the teacher has a family member who works with the foundation. Thomas said all of the …..

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Annual Shaw-Elkins Family Reunion planned

The annual Shaw-Elkins Family Reunion will be held Sunday, June 10, 2018, in the Fellowship Hall of Lisbon Baptist Church located at 4588 Lisbon Road, Clarkton, N.C.  Please bring your favorite covered dish and join us for the meal beginning at 12:45 P.M. Share:

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Mother County Genealogical society to meet Saturday

Mother County Genealogical Society will meet June 9th  from 12 noon to 2 p.m. at the Bladenboro Historical Society Building located at 818 South Main Street Bladenboro, NC.  The speaker will be Bonnie (Bridger) Mittelmaier. Her topic will be “Back To England, Digging Bridger Roots”. There will be time for mingling with others attending and swap genealogy information. Share:

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Tommie Jane Brewer

  Ivanhoe, NC – Tommie Jane Brewer age 91 of 13377 NC Hwy 210 E., Ivanhoe, NC died on May 29, 2018 at the Lower Cape Fear Hospice.  She was born in Robeson County on April 30, 1927 the daughter of the late Hector and Fannie Mae Blanks. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Lee Brewer; son Felton Lee Brewer and daughter Norlean F. Brewer; brother, Furley O. Blanks and sisters, Naomie Wade, Mable Hunt and Evader Durden. Tommie Jane is survived by her daughter, Earnestine Peters and two sons, David Lee Brewer and Charles Brandon Brewer; granddaughters, Robin Peters, Skyler Guyton-Brewer, Haley Smith, Cali Brewer and …..

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No Ammon Blueberry Festival this year

By Erin Smith After 22 years, an event that many Bladen County residents have looked forward to will not take place this year. The Ammon Blueberry Festival has ended its run after it was decided to not move forward with festival plans for this year, according to Marguerite Coble, one of the event’s many organizers. The reason given for no festival this year is the fact that so many of those who volunteer to help are not able to assist the committee this year. “With limited staff, we just decided this year it was best not to have it,” said Coble. When asked about the future for the festival, Coble …..

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United Way Crazy Fun Color Run registration open

By Erin Smith The United Way of Bladen County is planning their annual Crazy Fun Color Run and registration is now open for participants. The event is planned for 9 a.m. June 9th at the Elizabethtown Industrial Park behind Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery. According to Stacie Kinlaw, a United Way of Bladen County board member, the Crazy Fun Color Run is an event to raise money for United Way of Bladen County. All funds raised will support programs and activities that benefit Bladen County’s children and families. Some of the funded programs include Bladen County 4-H, Families First, Inc. and the Department of Social Services foster children programs. The …..

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BCC announces scholastic honor roll

DUBLIN – Bladen Community College is pleased to announce the 2018 spring term scholastic honor roll. Students who have maintained a 4.0 G.P.A. for the term have been named to the President’s List as follows: Elizabeth Allbright, Rolando Almazan, Hannah Arnett, Royce Bernhardt, Madison Byrd, Christian Cain, Mary Campbell, Madison Cartrette, Diana Catalan, Edwin Catalan, Frances Chavis, Lataiya Daniels, Ruby Davis, Nicholas Dove, Ashley Earl, Kolby Edwards, Tyler Ezzell, Jennifer Gaytan Morales, Ashley Hardin, Shelby Horne, David Howell, James Hunsinger, Hannah Hunt, Zachary Johnson, Destini Jones, Ting Lin, George Lockamy, Dakota Locklear, Quentin Locklear, Kayle Lowry, Taylor Mayers, Vincent Morris, Laura Moser, Jennifer Munoz, Molli Nance, Tucker Norton, Alise Pait, …..

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Memorial Day closings announced

By Erin Smith The Memorial Day Holiday is a time for honoring our men and women who gave their lives serving our country. In honor of the holiday, area offices have announced their schedule. All federal offices will be closed on Monday, May 28, in observance of the holiday. They will resume their regular schedule on Tuesday, May 29th. All state, county and municipal government offices will also be closed on Monday, May 28, for the holiday. They will resume their regular schedule on Tuesday, May 29th. Bladen County Schools will be closed on Monday, May 28, and classes will resume on Tuesday, May 29th. All branches of the Bladen County Public Library will be closed Saturday, …..

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Hoke Hospital Earns Stroke-Ready Certification

RAEFORD – Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital has earned Disease-Specific Care Certification as an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital from The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.   The certification is for two years. It recognizes hospitals equipped to treat stroke patients with timely, evidence-based care prior to transferring them to a primary or comprehensive stroke center.   Hoke Hospital underwent a rigorous onsite review to assess The Joint Commission’s Disease-Specific Care certification requirements. They include a dedicated stroke-focused program, staffing by qualified medical professionals trained in stroke care, and the ability to rapidly diagnose, test and treat stroke patients.   The certification benefits patients because early medical …..

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Martilla Hester (Halyburton) Freeman

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Martilla Hester (Halyburton) Freeman, 95, of Charlottesville, died on May 20, 2018, at Heritage Inn Assisted Living. Born on April 13, 1923, in Bladen County, N.C., she was the daughter of Matthew M. Hester and Jessie Susan Hilburn. Ms. Freeman was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Robert R Halyburton Sr.; her son, Thomas Franklin Halyburton; her second husband, Truett H Freeman; her brothers, Thedford Hester, Leo Hester, Opie Hester, Eldon Hester; and her sisters, Versie Hickman, Rometta Warren and Hattie Miller. Ms. Freeman was also preceded in death by her step grandson, Kenneth H. Bryant. Ms. Freeman graduated from Bladenboro High School and …..

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Siren malfunctions at Brunswick Nuclear Plant

By Erin Smith An emergency siren for the Brunswick Nuclear Plant malfunctioned on Monday. According to Brunswick County officials, Duke Energy reported that an emergency siren sounded Monday morning due to a malfunction of the siren. The siren was located in the emergency planning zone which surrounds Brunswick Nuclear Plant. Brunswick County officials state the plant is operating safely and that no emergency ocurred. residents residing in the area are reminded if they hear a siren and are not sure if it is a test or a real emergency, to tune in to their local radio or television for advisories or instructions. Share:

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Celebrate your Graduate with Graduation Lines

Congratulations to all of our 2018 graduates! As the academic year comes to an end, Seniors are anxiously awaiting the moment when they will be announced as graduates. BladenOnline.com is proud of all of our 2018 graduating seniors and would like to celebrate their accomplishments. As your graduate prepares to receive their diploma, send them a congratulatory note to let them know how much their hard work and dedication are appreciated. You can purchase 3 lines of text for only $5 for each announcement! A picture with text is $20 for each announcement! Your message will be published on BladenOnline.com. You can submit photos of your graduating Senior to bladenonline.com@gmail.com, or meet Tori Chestnutt, our …..

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Bladen County Commissioners to meet Monday

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Board of Commissioners will meet on Monday night at 6:30 p.m. in the Commissioners meeting room in the basement fo the Bladen County Courthouse. The Commissioners will deal with a busy agenda.  The Board will be asked to approve a consent agenda which includes the proposed agenda, the minutes of the May 7, 2018 regular meeting, budget amendments, County Attorney invoices in the amount of $3,850, Tax Releases No. 4-18 and an EMS Week Proclamation. The board will present the EMS Week Proclamation and they are expected to receive the financial dashboard report from Finance Director Lisa Coleman.  Bladen County Health Department Health Educator Marianne Valentiner will present the …..

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Congratulations Graduates!

As your graduate prepares to receive their diploma, send them a congratulatory note to let them know how much their handwork and dedication are appreciated.  Just print out and complete the form and mail it with your payment. 2018 Graduation Form Share:

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West Bladen High Announces Junior Marshals

West Bladen High School has announced their Junior Marshals for the 2018 Commencement Ceremony. Congratulations to the 2018 Junior Marshals. They are as follows: Hannah Arnett, Conner Brisson, Gabrielle Bryan, Kolby Edwards, Jacob Hester, Jennifer Gaytan Morales, Edgardo Lara, Callie Lewis – Lead, Cheyenne Lewis, Danae McMillan, Mohagany Rozier, Ariel Shaw, Brandon Walden, Abigail Young and Itzel Zuniga. Share:

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Doris Dowless Monroe

Doris Dowless Monroe, age 85, of Lumberton, passed away Thursday, May 17, 2018, at Wesley Pines Retirement Center in Lumberton. She was born May 12, 1933 in Bladen County to the late William Rich Dowless and the late Bessie King Dowless. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Neil Monroe; a daughter, Marla June Monroe; and her siblings: Louise Moore, Evelyn Gooden, Ethel Carroll, Elmer Dowless, and Woodie Dowless.  She is survived by two daughters: Malissa Allen and husband Donald of Lumberton and Teresa Wiles and husband John of Council; three grandchildren: Wingate Grimes and wife Maria of Holly Springs, Cindy Grimes of Wilmington, …..

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Cooperative Leadership Camp accepting registrations

The Cooperative Council of North Carolina will conduct a Cooperative Leadership Camp (CLC) from June 18th through June 22nd, 2018, at the FFA Center at White Lake.  CLC is a five day four night summer camp that puts teens in the positions of Worker Owners of a T-shirt cooperative. The teens work through the week to elect a board of directors, design, produce and sell T-shirts for their cooperative. At the end of the week they have their Annual Meeting to hear about the week and vote to dissolve the cooperative. Sponsored teens will learn skills such as team building, the seven cooperative principles, and industry workshops as well as a …..

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BCC Graduates Associate Degree Nursing Students

DUBLIN – Bladen Community College graduated 30 nursing students in one of its larger associate degree nursing classes in a pinning ceremony in May. The service included inspirational remarks from graduate Lynn Rich Worrell. Summer Lynn Culbreth was selected by her fellow students to receive the Professional Nursing Award, for demonstrating strong leadership qualities and providing a worthy role model for others. The Florence Nightingale Award was given to Howan Muzette Smith, by faculty choice, as the student with the strongest theory and clinical application skills. Brianna Shanice Alston was recognized with the highest grade point average with the Outstanding Student Nurse Award. Marshalls for the occasion were Amanda M. …..

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Upcoming Events

Bladen County Co-op Extension Announces Classes

Bladen County Cooperative Extension has announced a pair of classes open to the public. Plant Propagation Class, Tuesday, May 22 9am—12 noon.  Bladen County Cooperative Extension Greenhouse, 450 Smith Circle Drive, Elizabethtown. Please pay registration fee ($5) by May 18. Learn how to propagate plants.  Learn various ways to propagate plants, including semi-hard wood cuttings, air layering, stem cuttings leaf cutting, division,and other methods. We will talk about root cuttings, softwood and hardwood cutting but will not be doing these. We will be doing our “creating” outside at the greenhouse next to the Extension office. Please bring a chair. The second class is a FREE on growing grass for a lush …..

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UNCW releases Dean’s List

Contributed The University of North Carolina at Wilmington has released their Dean’s List for Spring Semester 2018. Several Bladen County residents were named to the list. They are as follows: Bladenboro: Jenna McRae Dove Clarkton: Grey Wilton Caballero, Kimberly Nicole Shipman, Kayla Marie Thompson and Abigail Kennan Ward. Elizabethtown: Ryan Wallace Baxley, Lindsey Louise Bockover, Kenneth Austin Brown, Trinity Faith Carroll, Brittany Lynne Collins, Cassidy Bess Hill, Amanda Martin King, and Lauren Ashley Trivette. Harrells Emily Love Jones and Mikaela Ann Stroud. Kelly Billy-Gray Weatherly Share:

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Peterson awarded SeHealth’s highest nursing honor

SRMC Third Bed Tower Shift Supervisor and Registered Nurse Deborah Peterson was named Southeastern Health’s 2018 Baker Nurse of Excellence during a ceremony hosted by the organization’s Professional Growth Council on May 10 as part of National Nurses Week. “I have never had the honor and privilege to work with someone as thoughtful as Mrs. Deborah who truly sacrifices herself each and every day for others,” wrote SRMC Third Bed Tower Manager Magenta Smith in Peterson’s nomination application. “She is completely involved with the operations and functions of 3BT and staff admire her dedication, loyalty, and commitment to being the best. She exemplifies excellence in all measures and would be an excellent Baker Nurse …..

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Sponsorships available for Summer Concerts

By Erin Smith The Elizabethtown-White Lake Chamber of Commerce is preparing for a busy summer. They will be offering the Sunset Jams Concert series at White Lake and the Summer Sounds concert series at the Cape Fear Farmer’s Market in Elizabethtown.  Sponsorships are still available for both concert series, according to Chamber Executive Director Dawn Maynard.  The Sunset Jams “Alive After Five” concert series will feature the Imitations on Thursday, June 21st; the Big Time Party Band on Thursday, July 19th; and the Fantastic Shakers on Thursday, August 16th. All concerts will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. at Goldston’s Beach at White Lake.  The Summer Sounds concert series will feature North Tower on Thursday, …..

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Crisis Intervention Training set for June

Contributed A Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) Course will be offered through Eastpointe MCO at the Southeastern Regional Mental Health Center in Lumberton from June 18 through June 22. The CIT training will cover topics such as identifying mental disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Trauma, Substance Use, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Mobile Crisis, Hearing Voices, Suicide Intervention, and De-escalation/Use of Force/Practice Role Plays. Those in attendance will also receive training on how to identify local resources, helpful information and alternatives to high-end services such involuntary commitment, petitions to the court, or psychiatric hospitals.  To register for the CIT Training event, click here. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 1-800-913-6109. Share:

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First Missionary Baptist Church Health Fair

There will be a Health Fair at First Missionary Baptist Church at 501 Martin Street Elizabethtown, NC  on Friday, May 11, 2018 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.   It is so very important for us to live the healthiest lives possible. Come out and get your Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Sugar Level and BMI checked to find out what your numbers are and where you stand. This is a free event and open to the public, come out and bring someone with you. Share:

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Clarkton PFWB Church 65th Homecoming Service

 A warm invitation is extended to you, family and friends to join us at the Clarkton PFWB Church on June 3rd to celebrate our 65th Homecoming. At the 10 o’clock hour, The Silence Family of Jacksonville, NC will uplift us with their Southern Gospel sound they are so well known for. Mr. TJ  Tatum will also uplift us with his soft and  inspiring songs for the Lord. Our Homecoming speaker, Rev. Marty Tew  will share his message during the 11 o’clock hour.  Rev. Tew is the World Witness Director of the PFWB Missions Department in Dunn, NC. A Homecoming meal will be served in our fellowship hall at noon. There will be no evening service on this day. Call Rev. Charlie Tatum at 910-648-2963 or 910-991-6540 for any questions. Please invite friends …..

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Local talent showcases Into The Woods

Get your tickets now to watch local talent perform on the Carolina Civic Center stage in “Into the Woods”. The dates of the performances are June 8th at 7:00 p.m., June 9th at 7:00 p.m., June 10th at 3:00 p.m. and June 15th at 7:00 p.m., June 16th at 7:00 p.m. For all online ticket purchases: carolinaciviccenter.com or you may call the office at 910-738-4339. Hope to see you there! Share:

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Bladen Community College announces assist loan program for students

DUBLIN – The Bladen Community College Board of Trustees has approved the addition of the North Carolina Assist Loan to provide financial support for parents and students to bridge the gap between the cost of higher education and the currently available financial aid sources. The NC Assist Loan is a state-based loan program offered by College Foundation, Inc. (CFI). The foundation administers state grant programs and North Carolina’sNational College Savings Plan, and is a partner in the state-wide college access initiative, College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC). The program offers parents and students the opportunity to borrow a low-cost alternative loan to finance educational expenses not covered by other financial …..

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Kids Appreciation Day set for Saturday

By Erin Smith The Elizabethtown Police Department and Elizabethtown Fire Department, together, will be conducting their annual Kids Appreciation Day event on Saturday, May 5th, 2018. The event will take place from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Elizabethtown Municipal Building located at 805 West Broad Street, Elizabethtown. There will be food, games, face painting, pony rides, a home run derby, a basketball three point shoot out, bounce houses and the police department will be giving away bicycles. Trophies will awarded to the winners of the basketball three point shoot out and the home run derby.  Everyone is encouraged to come out and enjoy the day.   Share:

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