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Category Posts : Lifestyles

Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving-April 18

Condolences to the Bush family.  Barbara Bush set standards for all to live by. One Stop voting begins tomorrow, April 19.  Check with Bladen County Board of Elections for more info. Bladen We Care annual Gala/Dance is set for Friday, 7-11 PM at The Venue, White Lake featuring Blackwater Rhythm & Blues Band.  A limited number of tickets still available, $50 per person. How about the stock market?  Two very good days as companies announce quarterly earnings. I love calling North Carolina home and happy to be back in Bladen County. Good visits Tuesday in DC at a couple of congressional offices, Rep. Rouzer and Jones.  Planned to visit a couple of more but confirmations came late …..

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May 19 5K Trail Run & Walk

White Oak Family Worship Center’s College and Careers Group is hosting a 5k Trail Run and Walk at Jones Lake State Park, on Saturday, May 19. Jones Lake State Park is located at 4117 NC-242, Elizabethtown, NC . Admission is $25. For more information and registration details go to: payit2.com/event/100198. Share:

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Both missing from Bladen County Found

According to Captain Larry Guyton with the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, both missing persons from Bladen County this week have been found. Jesse Sgro went missing from Singletary Lake State Park was found in Singletary Lake by Duplin County Divers on Saturday afternoon. He did not survive. Alejandra Vazquez went missing from the West Bladenboro area this week.  Vanzquez was found safe and unharmed in Robeson County late Friday evening with her boyfriend.     Share:

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Apply Now for the NCDPI 2018 Student Leadership Institute  

In its seventh year, the institute, is designed to prepare students to take active roles in their schools and communities through service experiences that are aligned to the curriculum.  It is divided into three cohorts:  (1) rising fourth and fifth graders, (2) rising sixth through eighth graders, and (3) rising ninth through twelfth graders. Prospective participants register as a team of 4-6 students with at least one adult mentor from their school or district.   Selected teams will  receive: Team building experiences; Hands on, minds-on learning from experienced trainers in character and leadership development; Experiential learning experiences; Service-learning action-planning; Evening activities that are fun, reflective, and impactful; Tools and materials to support service-learning, …..

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Colorectal Cancer:  Screening and Diagnostic Colonoscopy Procedures available at Cape Fear Valley Bladen County Hospital

A screening colonoscopy, for testing for the presence of colorectal cancer or polyps, is a service performed at Bladen County Hospital on a person who has no symptoms of colon cancer.  In addition, individuals with symptoms like bloody stools, dark tar-like stools or changes in stool size and shape should have a diagnostic colonoscopy. According to statistics from the North Carolina Central Cancer Registry’s Cancer Profiles, cancer was the leading cause of death in North Carolina in 2015.  In 2014, 202 cancer cases were reported in Bladen County residents.  In 2015, eighty Bladen County citizens died from some form of cancer.  Of these deaths, 11 % were caused by colon …..

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Chamber gearing up for a busy spring and summer

By: Charlotte Smith The Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce has been busy this winter planning and preparing. After this month’s regular chamber luncheon members found out there is a lot happening in Bladen County and in North Carolina. The guest speaker at April’s lunch meeting was Lisa Crawford, Senior Advisor-Special Projects (REAL ID) with the Office of Commissioner, Division of Motor Vehicles. Crawford announced in detail about the new program NC Department of Transportation will be rolling out. The N.C. REAL ID is the name of the program. It will make it more convenient when you need to board a commercial airplane or visit a military base or other federal …..

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BCC student receives NC Space Grant Community College STEM Scholarship

DUBLIN – BCC welding student, Savannah Doyle Schmidt, has been awarded the North Carolina Space Grant Community College Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Scholarship. The Community College STEM Scholarship is based on academic merit and potential for successful matriculation into a 4-year degree program. It is the goal of the scholarship award to foster community college retention in STEM academic tracks through graduation or transfer to a four-year institution, to promote STEM career awareness and workplace skills while recognizing high academic achievement and promise, and to increase participation of all students, including underrepresented minorities, females, and students with disabilities, in STEM-related careers. In May of 2018, Schmidt will receive …..

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Isaac Keyshawn Monroe

East Bladen High School graduate, Isaac Keyshawn Monroe, passed away on Monday, April 9th from injuries sustained in a vehicle wreck on Airport Road in Elizabethtown. His funeral services are being provided by Johnson Funeral Home. In honor of the late 21 year old soccer player and his beloved family, Dublin First Baptist Church has created a funeral line for Monroe’s funeral expenses. Donations are being collected until Sunday, April 15 at the church and on the church’s website. All donations need to be earmarked for the Monroe funeral line. Below is the church’s information. Dublin First Baptist Church P.O. Box 187 Dublin, NC 28332 https://www.dublinfbc.org/give Related article: https://bladenonline.com/one-killed-in-monday-afternoon-wreck/ Share:

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Vendor registration open for the Got To Be NC Festival

The annual Got To Be NC Festival takes place May 18-20 at the N.C. State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. Got To Be NC members are invited to show, sample and sell your products in the 50,000-square-foot Exposition Center. This is your chance to join more than 100 other North Carolina food and beverage companies to promote your products to thousands of consumers. For booth and event information, including vendor rules, regulations and application, visit http://www.gottobenc.com/node/1542. The deadline to sign up is April 20. Applications with payment are required to secure your booth(s). For more information, contact Sherry Barefoot at Sherry.Barefoot@ncagar.gov or 919- 707-3154. The show is expected to sell out, so apply …..

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Education about snakes from Wildlife Officer

As the weather warms, snakes start moving. Jones Lake State Park Superintendent Shane Freeman held an educational presentation at the Elizabethtown Rotary Club about the reptiles.  Freeman gave many tips about signs indicating if a snake is venomous. However, his advice was if you see a snake, don’t panic. Leave it alone and walk away. A lot of snakes are completely harmless and, if given enough time, a snake will usually move out of the area on its own according to Freeman.  Most snakes, even venomous ones, are reluctant to bite because they use their energy or their venom to acquire food, and they don’t view humans as a food …..

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Clyde’s Caliente Cowboys from Buncombe Cook Their Way to Kentucky

The Caliente Cowboys and Cowgirl, a student culinary team from Clyde A. Erwin High School in Buncombe County, cooked their way to first place in the first-ever North Carolina Jr. Chef Competition, held Monday at Guilford Technical Community College. With their Hot Asheville Chicken with Farmers Market Salad, team members Jacob Boyd, Lane Worley and Haley Marlowe won top honors, a trophy and a ticket to Kentucky to represent North Carolina in the Southeast Jr. Chef Competition. Ashe County High School took second place with a recipe for Chicken Cheese Enchiladas. Topsail High School in Pender County took third place with a Tropical Chicken Wr For the North Carolina Jr. Chef Competition, Sullivan …..

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Dublin Resident Awarded Honors

Contributed Christopher McLaughlin 24 , Dublin resident and Honor Student at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, to be inducted into the Lambda Sigma National Honor Society on Saturday April 14th, 2018. Christopher has been named on the University’s Honor list and his induction into Lambda Sigma comes with the recognition of being in the top 25% of his class. This honor society was established on the UNCP campus in 2009.   The Lambda Sigma Honor Society is a national honor society for second year men and women dedicated to the purpose of fostering leadership, scholarship, fellowship, and the spirit of service among college students, and to promoting the interests of the …..

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Special Messages for Bladen County Moms

Mother’s Day is just around the corner and many of you are planning how to make Mom’s special day unique. We want to help our readers to celebrate their Moms for all of their love, support and dedication. BladenOnline.com will be publishing your special messages to your Mom from May 9th through May 16th. So now is your opportunity to let your Mom know just how much she means to you. Mother’s Day lines are $5 per 3 lines. If you would like to add a photo with your Mother’s Day sentiment it will be a total charge of $20. Our college intern, Tori Chestnutt, will be out in the community taking …..

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Missing person at Singletary Lake State Park in Bladen County

  There are about 75 people searching this morning for a missing man. According to Bradley Kinlaw, Bladen County Emergency Director, Jesse Sgro, a 23 year old male from Fayetteville, was noticed missing early Saturday morning from his camp group at Singletary Lake State Park. Emergency responders started searching for the man around lunch on yesterday. Currently there are about 75 people on site searching. The family is bringing a photo of Sgro to help with the search. Kinlaw said he will distribute the photo and more information as soon as it becomes available. If anyone has any information about Jessie Sgro’s whereabouts they are asked to call the 911 …..

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Some weekend events postponed due to weather

By Erin Smith Organizers for two events planned for this weekend have announced cancellations. Cara Osborne, co-facilitator for the Bladen County Chapter of the Autism Society, said the first annual Autism Awareness Festival scheduled for Saturday at the Elizabethtown Middle School has been cancelled. Osborne said organizers are hoping to announce a new date for the event soon. A second event, the Hope Abounds Relay for Life fundraiser, which was planned for Sunday afternoon at Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery in Elizabethtown, has been cancelled according to the event Facebook page.  No new date was announced. BladenOnline.com will have more announcements regarding postponements due to the weather as we receive …..

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A Canna Renaissance

By Garry McDonald Working on a university campus, I can’t help but notice the changing whims of fashion. Lately, the trend among young men is khaki walking shorts, polo shirts, and white crew socks and white sneakers: exactly what we wore on campus in the early 1980s. Like clothes, plants come into and fall out of fashion. Re-discovering old garden plants is usually the result of breeding improved cultivars or someone taking a fresh look at how plants can be used in the landscape. One such plant is canna. Canna is certainly not a new plant, being very popular in Victorian gardens and into the 20th-century. The original garden plant, …..

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Child Abuse Awareness event planned

By Erin Smith On Tuesday the Bladen County Board of Commissioners adopted a proclamation declaring the month of April as Child Abuse Awareness month. The members of the Bladen County Department of Social Services are planning their 9th annual Child Abuse Prevention event for Saturday, April 28, beginning at 12 noon at the Bladen County Courthouse lawn in Elizabethtown. The annual Child Abuse Awareness Walk will begin at the San Jose Parking lot at 12 noon and will travel down Broad Street and end on the front lawn of the Bladen County Courthouse. There will light refreshments, entertainment and parent information packets will be provided. The event will end with …..

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Events for Bladen Residents

By: Dora Brogdon This weekend will be a busy one for Bladen County residents with events scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday, the morning begins with the First Annual Autism Awareness Festival which will be taking place at the Elizabethtown Middle School Athletics Field. The festival will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and will include fun activities such as rock painting, vendors, information booths and, a 1K Fun Walk for the whole family to enjoy! In Bladenboro the Spring Fling will be taking place at the Bladenboro Farmers Market and from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. along with live entertainment at 1 p.m. BBQ sandwiches will be available for only $5 and …..

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3 Redneck Tenors to perform at Carolina Civic Center Historic Theater

The Carolina Civic Center  Historic Theater in downtown Lumberton, NC, presents “3 Redneck Tenors” 7pm Friday April 27. Tickets are $25 individual, $22 senior (65+) or military, $20 SRMC Privelages Plus members, $10 students.  Group rate is $17 for 10 or more tickets purchased at same time in advance. Go to www.carolinaciviccenter.com  for ticketing details and promo video. Conceived by friends and fellow performers Matthew Lord, Blake Davidson, and Johanthan Fruge, 3 Redneck Tenors is a fresh new take on the Three Tenors model. These classically-trained singers perform all styles of music from modern pop to opera, and everything in between. Trained at such prestigious institutions as the Julliard School of Music, and having performed …..

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Let’s Eat Out, But Where?

By Cheryl Thurston Ahhh, Spring has finally arrived, with sunny days and mild nights. I love it. It makes me want to walk right out of the kitchen and go eat out. I may be still working off those 10 extra winter pounds but I can’t let myself starve. I remember when March used to come in like a lion and go out like a lamb, but the thing that I remember most about this March was how similar it was to March of last year. You may recall that this February was unseasonably warm and then March had some cold snaps in it. Just like last year. I hope …..

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West Bladen King and Queen forfeit their crowns 

It is prom season and time for students to be crowned King and Queen of their student bodies. Two Bladen County students have shown great generosity during their reign. West Bladen High School’s new Queen Sage McDonald and King Grayson White were crowned on Friday, which was Prom night for the school. However, they were not the first choice. The student Knights originally voted Scott Bowen to be King and Alise Pait to be Queen, but the new royal pair had different plans. According to those in attendance, Bowen and Pait had big plans as their school’s reigning royalty. Many say Bowen and Pait set a fine example for all …..

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Second win for Paul R. Brown Leadership Academy

Contributed The Black/Jack unit from the Paul R. Brown Leadership Academy won its second National Society of Pershing Rifles Drill Championship.   The Cadets competed against 24 Pershing Rifles, Pershing Angels and BlackJacks units from all over the United States. 23 College drill teams were represented and one other high school made up this years competitive field.   The meet was held in Concord NC on the Infield of the Charlotte Motor Speedway.   The Cadets competed in six events.  They won third place in Regulation Platoon commanded by Passion Graham, Three first place trophies in Regulation Squad Armed commanded by Josclynn Coleman, Collor Guard commanded by Brittany McMillan and Platoon Exhibition Armed …..

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Bladen County Pet of the Week: Rango

By: Dora Brogdon This week a 2 to 3 year old male hound by the name of Rango has been chosen. This handsome guy is very friendly and has a ton of energy! He’s very playful and would be the perfect family dog for that perfect family! The cost to adopt a dog is $50 and $40 to adopt a cat which includes the animal’s first required shots. The adoption hours are Monday to Friday at noon until 5 p.m. Donations of dog food, treats, toys, and cat litter are accepted by the shelter. Bladen County Animal Shelter is located at 506 Smith Circle in Elizabethtown. For more information or …..

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Bladen County Master Gardeners to conduct plant sales

The Bladen County Master Gardener Volunteers will be having their Annual Plant Sale on Saturday, April 28, and again on Saturday, May 5, at the Cape Fear Farmers Market in Elizabethtown, from 8 a.m. until  1 p.m. each day. A huge variety of North Carolina grown trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals and tomatoes will be available at reasonable prices. This is the only fund raiser the Master Gardeners have to sponsor two $500 scholarships for college bound students with a focus in agriculture and to promote the Bladen County Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteer program. Share:

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Bladen Students join club to serve community

Kiwanis’s Club of Elizabethtown welcomed new Key Club members from East Bladen at a ceremony on Tuesday, March 20 at the Cape Fear Farmer’s Market. Key Club is the oldest and largest service program for high school students. It is a student-led organization that teaches leadership through service to others. Members of the Kiwanis International family and Key Club members build themselves as they build their schools and communities. Kiwanis Club President, Jeff Futrell welcomed everyone and spoke about both the Kiwanis’s Club and the Key Club serve the communities. Secretary of the Kiwanis Club, Dr. Lisa Bryan led the new members in the club’s pledge. Each new member in …..

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Bladen County Relay for Life scheduled for May 4

The annual Relay For Life of Bladen County event will take place on Friday, May 4, 2018, at Elizabethtown Middle School located at 1496 US Hwy. 701 South, Elizabethtown, from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. There will be plenty for everyone to see and do! The 2018 Bladen County Relay for Life theme is “Rainbow of Colors.” We’re expecting you to help us fight this disease called Cancer while giving hope to all it touches. Share:

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BBQ Benefit for Alvin Butler

There will be a BBQ benefit for Alvin Butler planned for Saturday, April 21st, at the Center Road Church Fellowship Hall. Plates will cost a donation and proceeds will got to assist Mr. Butler in rebuilding his house or purchasing a mobile home. This fundraiser will be a joint effort between Pleasant Grove Independent Church, Center Road Baptist Church, and the Bladenboro Benefit Committee. Share:

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Autism Awareness event planned for April 2nd

Gibbs Helping Hands an organization which helps to build awareness for Autism will be having an event on Monday, April 2nd, at the Family Lewis Building in Elizabethtown, NC on Martin Luther King drive at 2 p.m. All drinks and food are free. We will have games, an Easter Egg hunt and other fun, exciting games and events planned. Everyone is encouraged to come out and support us, donations are welcomed. You can visit Gibbs Helping Hands on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/pg/GibbsHelpingHands/about/ Share:

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Shereeese Nichole to host the “little women of excellence beauty boot camp”

An incredible and inspiring experience awaits at the Little Women Of Excellence Beauty Boot Camp.  In its second edition, this exciting event founded by Shereese Nichole will take place Friday, July 27, and Saturday, July 28, 2018, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at Victory In Jesus Ministries Church (109 N. Madison Street) in Whiteville, North Carolina. Up to 100 girls, ages 8-18, are expected to take part in this life-changing event that offers physical and spiritual development and an incredible opportunity to hear and meet successful entrepreneurs, real life singer/song writers, authors, educators, business owners, and more. “Beauty Beyond Appearance” is the motivation behind Little Women Of Excellence Beauty …..

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Upcoming Events

Events for Bladen County Residents

By: Dora Brogdon There will be plenty to see and do in Bladen County this weekend. On Saturday, March 17, the United Way of Bladen County will be having a fundraiser at the Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery. The event will begin at 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. along with Jason Jackson and Randall Canady performing at 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. The joyous event will include live bands, face painting, carriage rides, corn hole tournament and, Sunset Slush. Everyone is welcomed to join and for anymore information call Christy Sasser at 910-991-6751. Also on Saturday, the East Bladen Booster Club will be hosting a fundraiser at the East Bladen High School in the cafeteria. The …..

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White Lake Baptist Church to hold Community Outreach Program

White Lake Baptist Church will hold a Community Outreach Program on Saturday, March 24, 2018, from 10 a.m until 2 p.m. at the church. There will be many different public safety agencies providing educational and informative demonstrations. There will be an open session in the Church Sanctuary from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. and event programs will begin at 11:10 a.m. and continue until 2 p.m. Door prizes will be available. Programs will include: CPR, Are You Okay sponsored by the Bladen County Sheriff’s Department, Special Needs Registry, Code Red Reverse 911, Fire Department, EMS, Department of Aging information, Funeral Arrangement Planning,v Opioids Addiction and Prevention, and Southeastern Carolina Crossroads …..

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CSM Walker retirement ceremony conducted

Photos by Kenneth Armstrong Command Sergeant Major Annie L Walker, a native of Elizabethtown and  a graduate of East Bladen class of 1985, had her Change of Responsibility Ceremony on Thursday, March 9, 2018, at Fort Jackson, S.C. Fort Jackson was where CSM Walker last served as the 10th Command Sergeant Major, United States Army Financial Management School, Corps and Regiment. CSM Walker proudly served her country for 32 years. Share:

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Time to Spring forward

Spring isn’t here yet, but we still must spring forward. This evening before you go to bed don’t forget to move your clocks ahead one hour. Daylight saving time 2018 in North Carolina will begin at 2:00 AM on Sunday, March 11 and ends at 2:00 AM on Sunday, November 4. The Spring Equinox of 2018 in Northern Hemisphere will begin at 12:15 PM on Tuesday, March 20. Flowers and trees started blooming early this year. Farmers have been working over time to save their crop. Share:

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40th Annual Dr. Sharyn Edwards Piano Festival is March 16 – 17

The 40th Annual Dr. Sharyn Edwards Piano Festival is March 16 – 17 at Southeastern Community College. The two-day event, named in honor of Edwards, an acclaimed former Southeastern Community College music faculty member, includes piano competitions and recitals by students in kindergarten through college. The opening concert is Friday, March 16, at 6 p.m. in the SCC Auditorium. To celebrate the 40th anniversary, the featured artist is Dr. Sharyn Edwards. Guest artists include Lindsey Vickers Chattin and Miranda Conner. A native of Asheville, NC, Dr. Edwards holds the Doctorate of Music Degree in Piano Performance from the University of South Carolina where she studied with renowned Raymond Dudley and …..

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Bladen County Pet of the Week: Gizmo

By: Dora Brogdon This week a 2-year-old male feline by the name of Gizmo has been chosen to be Pet of the Week. He is a very friendly cat that loves to play. This little furry guy needs to go to a good home where he will be loved! The cost to adopt a dog is $50 and $40 to adopt a cat, which includes the animal’s first required shots. The adoption hours are Monday through Friday from noon until 5 p.m. Donations of dog food, treats, toys, and cat litter are accepted by the shelter. Bladen County Animal Shelter is located at 506 Smith Circle in Elizabethtown. For more …..

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Coffee Talk Support Group meeting announced

If you have a child with special needs, you are welcome to join us for Coffee Talk. Coffee Talk is a support group for parents and families of children with special needs.  There they can find support of other parents who are facing similar challenges. Coffee Talk meets every third Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the Dragonfly Coffee Shop located at 162 S. Poplar Street in Elizabethtown.  The next meeting is Tuesday, March 20, 2018. Share:

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First annual Autism Awareness event set

By Erin Smith The First Annual Autism Awareness Festival is planned for Saturday, April 7, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Elizabethtown Middle School Athletics Field. Events will include a 1K Fun Walk, vendors, information booths, rock painting with Bladen rocks, food, fun and more. Share:

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Bladenboro Art Gallery Exhibit

Henry Singletary, Volunteer with the Bladenboro Historical Society Paintings, drawings and wood carvings by Mr. Bernard Frink will be on exhibit through May 27th in the Bladenboro Art Gallery, in the Bladenboro Historical Society Building, 818 South Main Street, Bladenboro, NC. Open hours are 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. During the 1930’s, Mr. Bernard Frink attended several years of school in what was originally the Bladenboro Farm Life School and now the Bladenboro Historical Society building. He graduated from high school in 1943. After a long working career away from Bladenboro, he returned “home” and into retirement.   The Farm Life School building was saved from destruction in 1992.  Mr. Frink is one …..

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FIVE FACTS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY

By Brenda Brown Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Fayetteville, NC Most people know at least something about Social Security. For decades, Social Security has been providing valuable information and tools to help you build financial security. Here’s your opportunity to find out a little more, with some lesser-known facts about Social Security. 1. Social Security pays benefits to children. Social Security pays benefits to unmarried children whose parents are deceased, disabled, or retired. See Benefits for Children at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/EN-05- 10085.pdf for the specific requirements. 2. Social Security can pay benefits to parents. Most people know that when a worker dies, we can pay benefits to surviving spouses and children. …..

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Week of Seuss in Bladen County

Bladen County Schools celebrated the beloved, late author Dr. Seuss and Read Across America this week in many different forms. Students, teachers, staff members, parents and volunteers all across the county enjoyed different festivities. Some popular ways to celebrate Read Across America and Dr. Seuss was to wear crazy socks, have volunteers read to students and have students make different crafts of items found in Seuss’ books. Dublin Primary School posted the ways they celebrated on their Facebook page. Two of the days the school participated in and posted about were “Crazy Sock Day” and “Green Eggs and Ham Day”. Find more of their photos on their social media page …..

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Bladenboro resident pens book

A Pastor from Bladen County has penned a book describing what it means to walk in faith. Bradley Tatum, who resides in Bladenboro, and is the Pastor of Forest Lawn Baptist Church in Tabor City, has released a book called Following A Man You’ve Never Met: On A Road To Redemption. Tatum said a book signing is planned for Sunday, April 29th, after the morning worship service at Forest Lawn Baptist Church. There will also be a free meal, said Tatum. According to the book’s synopsis: “As you meander through the pages of this discourse, you’ll discover things concerning your walk in life that you never knew existed. You’ll come …..

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JUUL popular with Bladen County teens

By: Charlotte Smith A new revelation was announced in a meeting with Bladen County’s Healthy Collaborative Tuesday morning. The new JUUL, an electronic alternative to cigarettes is gaining popularity with our teenagers. Travis Greer, Regional Youth Tobacco Prevention Coordinator stated 16.8% of teenagers are using electronic cigarettes and the kids say JUUL is the apple product of the e-cigarettes. BladenOnline.com staff asked some Bladen County high school students if they knew about JUUL products. All wanted to remain anonymous, but each student we asked said the JUUL products are very popular with a lot of students attending both East and West Bladen High Schools.  A next question we asked was …..

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Bladenboro Spring Fling to feature Best Biscuit Baker Contest

The Bladenboro Spring Fling is set for Saturday, April 7, 2018, and will feature a “Best Biscuit Baker Contest.” The winner of Best Biscuit Baker contest will receive a Grand Prize of $100.00 and a trophy with “Best Biscuit Baker” engraved on it. Entries must be biscuits which are made from scratch and they must be delivered to the Bladenboro Farmer’s Market for judging by 11 a.m. Each contest entry must have six freshly baked “from scratch” biscuits. The cost to enter the contest is $10. Judging will take place beginning at 11 a.m. and the winner will be announced at 12 noon. The event is sponsored by Bladenboro Hardware and Grace & Company. For more information …..

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Former Bladen County resident publishes first novel

By Erin Smith A former Bladen County has published his first novel. Lynn Welborn, who now resides in Wilmington, has released Crazy Beach: Disc One and a launch party for the book is scheduled for Monday, March 12, from 6 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at Hell’s Kitchen in Wilmington. Welborn also has plans to be available to sign copies of his book during the 40th annual White Lake Water Festival as well. The book takes the reader on a journey of teenage adventure, lust and mischief all while exploring young life on an island. According to book synopsis, “An instantly entertaining trek embedding into your heart forever the soundtrack of …..

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Youth workforce innovation and opportunity act to host summit

The Lumber River Youth Services Committee is hosting its Youth Empowerment Summit. Youth ages 14-24 will enjoy a fun-filled day packed with ideas and strategies that will empower youth to be proactive and make positive decisions. Available to WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) participants in Bladen, Hoke, Richmond, Robeson and Scotland counties. March Lumber River Youth Empowerment Summit will be held on March 10th at 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Hoke County High School, 505 South Bethel Road, Raeford, NC 28376. Share:

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North Carolina State Highway Patrol Holds Promotional Ceremony

Raleigh – Colonel Glenn M. McNeill Jr., commander of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, provided remarks to the 76 newly promoted members of the state highway patrol, their families and friends in a ceremony today in Cary.  Of the 76 members, 10 civilian members were recognized for their recent promotions by Deputy Commander Vic Ward.  The newly promoted members were given their oath of office by the Honorable Chief Justice Mark D. Martin of the Supreme Court of North Carolina. “In assuming these positions of leadership you will sew on new stripes and place new brass upon your collars, but true leadership requires so much more,” said Colonel Glenn M. McNeill …..

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ROUZER NOW ACCEPTING HIGH SCHOOL ART SUBMISSIONS FOR CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Rouzer is now accepting submissions for the 2018 Congressional Art Competition.  All high school students who are residents of the 7th Congressional District are encouraged to participate.  The winning entry will be displayed in the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C.    “This year’s art competition is an opportunity for students to creatively express what they love most about our beloved Tarheel State.  The winning artist from the 7thDistrict will have their artwork on display for eleven months in the Capitol tunnel, which is seen by thousands of visitors from across the country, Congressional staffers and members of Congress.  Every time I go to the House floor …..

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An Elegant Evening at the Hospital Foundation Gala

  By Erin Smith Saturday night was a night fit for an awards show as the Bladen County Hospital Foundation Gala was held at LuMil Vineyard. The well attended event featured music provided by the band 10 Spot of Virginia Beach, Virginia. The band played a variety of music including Motown favorites such as “I’ll Be Around” and “My Girl” and contemporary hits such as “Cupid Shuffle” and “Blank Space.” During the event a raffle was held and prizes included, but were not limited to, a necklace provided by Bob’s Jewel Shop of Lumberton, a green egg grill, an Echo Show and a round Yeti Cooler. Cape Fear Valley Health …..

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Events for Bladen Residents

By: Dora Brogdon Feb 24: “A Night at the Oscars” will take place at Lu Mil Vineyard, with the option of black-tie attire, on Saturday, February 24th, 2018 and will begin at 6 p.m.. This event was planned for the Bladen County Hospital Foundation Gala for the year. Any proceeds that are raised by the event will go to the patients of Bladen County Hospital. Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased by calling 910-862-1206. READ MORE Feb 24: A fundraiser will take place at the Windsor United Methodist Church for Teen Challenge. The event will begin at 4 p.m. and will end at 7 p.m. There will be …..

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American Pickers is looking for participants in Bladen County

By Erin Smith There is excitement in the air as American Pickers is looking for individuals in Bladen County who have large and rare collections or unusual items. It was announced on Thursday morning American Pickers is looking for leads in our area. “I’m excited about it,” said Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Dawn Maynard. She added this is an excellent opportunity to showcase our community. “I think opportunities like this are great for our community because it reaches people outside the community,” said Maynard. For those who are not familiar with the show, American Pickers features Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz and their team as they explore …..

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Bladen County United Way planning St. Patrick’s Day Fun Day

Bladen County United Way is planning a fundraiser for St Patrick’s Day. The St. Patrick’s Day Fun Day is set for Saturday, March 17th, at Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.  “It’s fun for all ages,” said Christy Sasser, President of Bladen County United Way.  There will be a corn hole tournament, live bands, carriage rides, face painting, and Sunset Slush will be present along with vendors. There will also be a 50/50 raffle. Sasser said Jason Jackson and Randall Canady will play from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and Will Jones will take to the stage from 1 until 4 p.m. Everyone is invited …..

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Old Fashioned Planters Day announced

By Erin Smith The 26th annual Old Fashioned Planter’s Day is scheduled for Friday, March 23, and Saturday, March 24, at the Graham farm in Ammon. Gates will open at 9 a.m. each day.  On Friday night, there will be a Chicken and Rice Dinner and cost is a donation. A museum is now open. There will be a saw mill, hit and miss engines, old tractors, live music, food and drinks and much more. There will be Country and Gospel singing both Friday and Saturday nights. There will also be crafts vendors, children’s games and rides, antique farm equipment and primitive tool displays and horse drawn equipment on display.  …..

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Kelly Spring Festival is planned

The Kelly Spring Festival is planned for Saturday, April 28, 2018,  at the Kelly Ballpark in Kelly. The event will kick off with a parade at 10 a.m.  Parade entrants are asked to line up on Cassius Smith Road beginning at 9:30 a.m. The parade will travel down NC 53 towards the Kelly ball field. The North Tower Band will offer a variety of music beginning at 11 a.m. The band plays a variety of Top 40, beach music, funk and oldies.  In addition to the band, there will be  various food and craft vendors available. Come out and join us for beach music, bounce houses, crafts, raffles and food along …..

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Old restaurant in Elizabethtown leveled to ground

By: Charlotte Smith This week an old restaurant in Elizabethtown was torn completely down. Demolition work began in late January on the old Cape Fear BBQ building. There are plenty of speculations surrounding what may stand in its place one day, but no official announcement has been made by the property owners.  Related article: Iconic restaurant building being demolished Share:

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Lowering of United States and North Carolina Flags in Honor of the Victims of the Attack in Parkland, Florida

Bladen County has all flags lowered. Governor Roy Cooper has joined President Donald Trump in ordering all United States and North Carolina flags at state facilities to be lowered to half-staff from Feb. 15 until sunset on Feb. 19 in honor of the victims of the school shooting in Parkland, Florida. In a speech to the North Carolina Healthcare Association, Governor Roy Cooper shared his thoughts on the tragedy in Parkland, Florida. An excerpt of Gov. Roy Cooper’s remarks is below: “Our hearts are broken for people in Florida—for those kids, for those adults who were killed…When will this country have had enough of this? 25 fatal school shootings since Columbine—and we all remember what happened at …..

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State Employees Credit Union Foundation (SECU) High School Scholarship Opportunity – Reminder

Since the SECU Foundation was established in August 2004, it has awarded annual $10,000 “People Helping People” four-year scholarships – increasing from two to three in 2014 – to graduating seniors attending North Carolina Charter Schools. These scholarships will be awarded to students attending one of the 16 constituent campuses of the University of North Carolina. These funds are made possible through the contributions to the Foundation by members of State Employees’ Credit Union. Below are the steps for applying for this scholarship opportunity:  – Review the ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA and share scholarship information with eligible students and their parents. New for 2018: The SECU People Helping People Scholarship is only available to graduating …..

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Class Size Legislation and Charter Schools

Charter schools are not bound to the class size mandates in current legislation. The charter school’s approved charter application operationalized in the nonprofit board of directors’ policy dictates the class size at the charter school. Since charters are not required to follow the class size mandates they also do not have to run PowerSchool class size reports. Charter schools with specific class size numbers in the approved application may request an amendment through OCS if there changes to the class sizes at the charter school. Please contact OCS via email at ocs@dpi.nc.gov with questions or concerns about class sizes in charter schools. Share:

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Bladen County Love Lines

Adriana and Kamden, If I had to choose between loving you and breathing, I would use my last breath to tell you I LOVE YOU! Mom Not so long ago I was alone and lost, and then you came along and I was home. Thank you for finding me, Tiffany Strickland My Huckleberry, I want to say thank you for the last 8 years. I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck. Happy 7 year Wedding Anniversary, Love your Dragonfly Bo, I love you so much and I’m very proud of you and the husband/father you are. Kaitlyn,   You’re SWEETER than chocolate. You’re …..

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Golden LEAF scholarships at Bladen Community College

Bladen Community College students have received Occupational Extension Golden LEAF scholarships. Pictured from left to right are Vice President for Workforce and Continuing Education Sondra Guyton, recipients Stefon Derrell Geathers, Luis Alberto Abreu Hernandez, Jasmine Mikayla Chavis, Tia R. Carter, Samantha Brooke Jackson, and Derwin Strickkand, Jr., and Vice President for Student Services Barry Priest. For more information about scholarship opportunities at BCC, call 910 879-5500.               Share:

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Bladen County’s Junior Betas earn State offices, bring home awards

Photos are contributed By Erin Smith Many of Bladen County’s parents, teachers and staff are beaming with pride after this week’s State Junior Beta Convention in Greensboro. Bladen County’s Junior Betas performed well winning three State Junior Beta offices, two Golden Tickets to perform, and bringing back several awards. Winners will move on to compete the National Jr. Beta Club Conference in Savannah, Georgia in June. Two of Bladen County’s Jr. Betas received a Golden Ticket to perform in dance at the National Jr. Beta Club Convention. They were Macey Potter of Emereau:Bladen and Sydney Gardner with Clarkton School of Discovery. Three of Bladen County’s Jr. Betas were elected to …..

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Health Grades

Let’s Eat Out, But Where?

By Cheryl Thurston January usually starts off with a lots of parties, hopes and ambitions. We relish the chance to make fresh starts. The most common New Year’s Resolution is to loose weight, however, by the end of the month we are usually back to our old habits, whatever they may be. (It’s the same for me.) When people are getting back to work after a holiday break, and have to rush from one place to the next, checking items off of the lists, they fall back on convenience.  That’s January. All the more reason we need to know what we are fueling our bodies with, right? Well, here it …..

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Love Lines of Bladen County

UPDATE February 13th, 2018: Valentine’s Day is tomorrow, Wednesday, February 14th. We don’t want you to miss the opportunity to tell someone you love how much they mean to you. Tonya Shaw is at the Dragon Fly Coffee House in Elizabethtown today, Tuesday, February 13th until 4 p.m. writing up the Love Lines to be published on BladenOnline.com.     The coffee shop is also offering a Valentine Sweetheart Frappe for the whole month of February. Stop by now.  Read previous information: Valentine’s Day will be coming soon. Bladen County has a lot of love. We want to help our readers celebrate the day. BladenOnline.com will be publishing Love Lines from …..

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Fundraiser planned for Teen Challenge

By Erin Smith A fundraiser is planned for Teen Challenge who recently announced they were locating a facility for women in Bladen County. The spaghetti plate dinner and silent auction will take place at Windsor United Methodist Church in Ammon Saturday, February 24, from 4 until 7 p.m. “We have raised the initial payment of $5,000. We actually raised $6,781. So the additional $1,781 will go toward the next $35,000,” said Amy Munn. Volunteers are now trying to raise the $35,000 needed in order to be able to occupy the property, she said. The property is located on Lula Long Road in Ammon. Munn said the items for the silent …..

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LoWanda Dee Davis Productions announced an audition alert

LoWanda Dee Davis Productions announced an audition alert. Ms. LoWanda Dee Davis has held several productions in and around Bladen County in the past. Now she is ready for some new talent for a new production. Ms. Davis said there are only 25 time slots available as of yesterday. Anyone interested is asked to contact Ms. Davis as soon as possible to book a 15 minute slot for auditions held this coming Saturday, February 3rd at the Bladen County Public Library.  Ms. Davis did note any one interested in the auditions does not have to attend the whole audition time from 11 am until 5 pm. Each audition time slot …..

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NCDOT Seeking New Partners for 2018 Watch for Me NC Program

RALEIGH – North Carolina communities interested in participating in the 2018 Watch for Me NC program may now submit applications to the N.C. Department of Transportation. The nationally-recognized program focuses on bicycle and pedestrian safety, education and enforcement. The 2018 campaign is supported by the Governor’s Highway Safety Program in partnership with the NCDOT Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation.  “Watch for Me NC provides hands-on training to law enforcement while also educating the public as both must be engaged in the process to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety,” said Ed Johnson, Watch for Me NC program manager. “Our goal is to reduce severe crashes and injuries in our communities through law enforcement training, …..

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Imagination Library reaches Bladen County

Register your child to receive a book a month from the Imagination Library. Elizabethtown — Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is here in Bladen County. Reading is a healthy habit but not every child has the resources to develop that habit. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library hopes to change that for the children of North Carolina. Funding for the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a book gifting program that mails free books to children from birth to the age of 5, has been approved by state legislatures. The program will bring free books to the children of 98 of North Carolina’s 100 counties, including Bladen. The program mails a free, age-appropriate book each …..

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Fundraiser planned for two families in Bladenboro

A benefit is planned for two families in Bladenboro for Saturday, February 17th, from 4 until 7 p.m. at the Bladenboro Historical Society Building. All proceeds go to assist Laura Bowen Albright and Randy Pittman. There will be barbecue plates and tea available at a cost of $7 each. A bake sale will also take place during the plate sale. Share:

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Bladen County Pet of the Week

By: Dora Brogdon This week a 15 week old female lab mix puppy by the name of Jazz has been picked! This little sweet heart loves to play and very friendly! This adorable puppy needs a loving family to take her home with them so she can have a happy life! The cost to adopt a dog is $50 and $40 to adopt a cat which includes the animal’s first required shots. The adoption hours are Monday to Friday at 12:00 noon until 5:00 p.m. Donations of dog food, treats, toys, and cat litter are accepted by the shelter. Bladen County Animal Shelter is located at 506 Smith Cir, Elizabethtown, NC 28337. For more information or …..

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Thoughts While Shaving

Thoughts While Shaving

So, a nickel for your thoughts about President Trump’s State of the Union speech last night?  Best I could tell, his supporters were pleased, his detractors remained unchanged.  Think everyone would give him high marks for invited guest that helped him make many of his points. Stock market continued to ‘drop’ on day two of what some prognosticators are calling a temporary correction. A reminder, filing period for the 2018 General Election begins on Monday, February 12 and ends February 28. Numerous seats will be on the ballot, from the courthouse to Congress.  Visit the local Board of Elections for more info or call them at 910-862-6951.  You can also Google the NC State Board of Elections or …..

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Support National Wear Red Day

Contributed Support Go Red For Women by participating in National Wear Red Day on Friday, February 2, 2018. Why Go Red? Cardiovascular disease in the U.S. kill approximately one woman every 80 seconds. The good news is that 80 percent of cardiac events may be prevented with education and lifestyle changes. Go Red For Women advocates for more research and swifter action for women’s heart health. That’s why this year we are asking that everyone wear red on National Wear Red Day. ​Heart disease and stroke is the No. 1 killer in women, and stroke disproportionately affects African-Americans. Importantly, African-American women are less likely than Caucasian women to be aware that heart disease is the leading cause of death.Diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, high …..

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Upcoming Events

Events for Bladen Residents

By: Dora Brogdon On Saturday, January 27th, Jones Lake State Park will be having a special event for the general public. Participants will be learning about the various snakes and other unique species found in our state. Those that do attend should meet at the Visitor Center at 10 a.m. Share:

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Recall: Rich Products Corporation recalls beef products due to contamination

WASHINGTON, D. C.– Rich Products Corporation, a Vineland, N.J. establishment, is recalling approximately 3,420 pounds of beef meatball products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The ready-to-eat (RTE) frozen beef meatball items were produced on Dec. 17, 2017. The following products are subject to recall: *36-lb. cases containing six 6-lb. bags of “Member’s Mark Casa DI BERTACCHI ITALIAN STYLE BEEF MEATBALLS” with a “Best if Used By 17 DEC 2018” label and a lot code of 15507351 on the packaging. The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 5336” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped …..

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Bladen County Pet of the Week

By: Dora Brogdon This week a beautiful 1 year old female by the name of Aster has be chosen. This affectionate feline loves to play and get attention. She has such a big personality and very out going. Aster is just an all around good cat that will also make the perfect family pet. The cost to adopt a dog is $50 and $40 to adopt a cat which includes the animal’s first required shots. The adoption hours are Monday to Friday at 12:00 noon until 5:00 p.m. Donations of dog food, treats, toys, and cat litter are accepted by the shelter. Bladen County Animal Shelter is located at 506 …..

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NC Muscadine Grape Growers visit Lu Mil Vineyard

Photos courtesy Denise Bridgers By Erin Smith The North Carolina Muscadine Grape Growers Association met on Saturday at Lu Mil Vineyard. The event was attended by about 80 Muscadine growers.  “We always appreciate any occasion to help promote the Musacadine wine and grape industry and feel that hosting this event is an honor. It gives us a chance to let others see how we do things along with many opportunities to learn from the presenters, trainers and other growers,” said Denise Bridgers. One of the highlights of the meeting was a live demonstration and discussion in the vineyard. According to the Association,  Muscadine grapes are produced on 1-year-old wood and vineyard …..

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“Pardons of Innocence: The Wilmington Ten” Documentary and Panel Discussion at Carolina Civic Center Theater

The Carolina Civic Center Historic Theater, in partnership with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), will screen the CashWorks HD Productions documentary “Pardons of Innocence: The Wilmington Ten,” at 7 p.m. Thursday, February 22, followed by a panel discussion about the film. Doors will open 6 p.m. The theater is located at 315 North Chestnut Street in downtown Lumberton, N.C.  The film is written, produced and narrated by Cash Michaels, staff writer for The Wilmington Journal. In addition to the film’s director, panel discussion members include Rev. Benjamin Chavis, former national director of the NAACP and member of the “Wilmington Ten.”  This special event is free and open to the public but tickets are required. Tickets …..

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Upcoming Events

Events for Bladen County

By: Dora Brogdon This Saturday, Jan 20, will have a total of 3 events. The first event to start the day off will be a Introduction to Carolina Bays at Jones Lake State Park. Participants will learn about the geological mysteries of the Carolina Bays that some call home! Those that due attend should meet at the Park’s Visitor Center. The NC Muscadine Growers Association will be meeting at Lu Mil Vineyard. Registration will begin at 8:30a.m. and those who do plan on attending should contact Dianna at 910-267-4531. There will be a no-cost business seminar on Church Event Planning: Beyond the Fundraiser. The seminar will begin at 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. On Sunday, Jan …..

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Snow cream for snow days

Bladen County has received more snow this year than most years. Schools have been canceled and some may be wondering what to do on this snow day. Snow cream is always a good, fast, tasty treat. We thought we would share the recipe for the refreshing cream. You will need the following ingredients: 8 c. clean snow 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk 1 tsp. vanilla extract Then in a large mixing bowl, stir together sweetened condensed milk and vanilla. Add snow, 1 cup at a time, stirring until all ingredients have been added; continue adding snow until an ice cream-like texture has been reached. You may need as …..

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Wyche Gallery features Native American exhibit

The exhibition “Women of the Red Earth” gives a view through the Indigenous lens and features the poems of Tonya Holy Elk Locklear, who is Lumbee/Oglala Lakota, and the visual art work of Margie Beth Labadie, who is Ashkenazi-Levi. Visually striking Native American objects entice viewers to come closer to read newly written, untold histories of Native Americans who continue to struggle in an overwhelmingly non-indigenous United States. This Native American – non-Native American collaboration crosses cultural boundaries and open up lines of communication between all communities. Everyone is cordially invited to participate in the afternoon discussion and attend the opening reception to learn more about the poetry and art from Earth Women Arts. …..

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Pet of the Week: Pickles

By: Dora Brogdon This week Pickles, now a 1 year old male, has been chosen to be Pet of the Week. He’s very friendly and affectionate towards people but he doesn’t quite get along with other dogs. The cost to adopt a dog is $50 and $40 to adopt a cat, which includes the animal’s first required shots. The adoption hours are Monday through Friday from noon until 5 p.m. Donations of dog food, treats, toys, and cat litter are accepted by the shelter. Bladen County Animal Shelter is located at 506 Smith Circle in Elizabethtown. For more information or questions call (910)862-6918. Share:

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Historical Martin Luther King Junior Parade

Photos By: Kenneth Armstrong This year may be one for the record books for the annual Martin Luther King Junior Parade. Bladen County Commissioner and community leader, Arthur Bullock, coordinates the big event each year with great success, but this year seems to have been the largest one yet. Dedicated Soulz MC, a local Christian motorcycle club focused on empowering lives of individuals and enriching communities had hundreds of motorcycle riders in the parade. The parade also showcased numerous cars belonging to multiple car clubs. The parade entries varied in a large variety. There were floats, characters, elected officials and citizens running for public office in addition to the dressed up cars …..

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Bladen County Schools

Bladen County Schools closed for inclement weather

Valerie Newton with Bladen County Schools sent out a call and social media posts to notify students and parents about the schools’ schedule for Wednesday, January 17, 2018.  In the post Newton said, “…due to predicted inclement weather affecting our area beginning mid-morning on Wednesday, all Bladen County Schools will be closed for students on Wednesday, January 17 and it will be an optional teacher workday. Essential transportation and maintenance personnel will be notified by your immediate supervisor with specifics for reporting to work.” More information will be published as it is provided. Share:

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Jefferson Weaver: Eyes half-filled with hope

By: Jefferson Weaver I have no idea how long he was lost, but it was long enough that he was grateful for a decent meal. I’d finally managed to find a few hours to head for the woods, and despite any number of ridiculous delays, I still had a good two hours of daylight to get some work done. I’d even come up with an alternative plan since it turned out I’d grabbed the wrong keys as I fled the house, and was locked out of the hunting grounds far better than anyone with criminal intent. Then I saw Will. At first, I thought he was an early-moving coyote hunting …..

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Bladen County marks Martin Luther King Jr. Day with celebrations

By Erin Smith Residents of Bladen County came together on Monday morning to celebrate Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Festivities for the day kicked off at 11 a.m. with the annual parade through the downtown of Elizabethtown.  The parade included entries from several car and motorcycle clubs in the region, beauty queens, churches, businesses, elected officials and schools. It was estimated there were 190 motorcycles took part in the parade. Following the parade, several programs and events took place to mark Dr. King’s birthday. A program was conducted at the Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church with Pastor Willie J. McCaskill II as the guest speaker. The service is sponsored by the …..

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Historical Markers In Bladen County: Oakland Plantation

We will be running a series on Historical Markers in Bladen County. Oakland Plantation, situated on a bluff overlooking the Cape Fear River in Carvers, Bladen County, North Carolina, was built over 200 years ago by General Thomas Brown, an American Revolutionary War patriot. It is one of a few houses of its period in North Carolina still being used today. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Oakland depicts the architecture and skill of the artisans of that period. Bricks laid in Flemish bond were brought from England on sailing ships as ballast, transported up river, and unloaded by hand. It was added to the National Register of …..

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30th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade planned

Everyone is encouraged to attend the 30th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade planned Monday, Jan. 15 in downtown Elizabethtown. Everyone is encouraged to attend the parade and bring your family and friends. There will be plenty of floats, classic vehicles, high school queens and kings, bands, dancers, social organizations, motor cycle clubs, VFW Posts, Boy Scouts, American Legion Posts, and much more for everyone to enjoy. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a celebration of the life and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. King promoted Civil Rights through nonviolent civil disobedience. He is perhaps best known for his “I have a dream…” speech in 1963. He …..

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This Day In History

This Day in History – January 13

1733 – James Oglethorpe & 130 English colonists arrive at Charleston, South Carolina. 1794 – Congress changes US flag to 15 stars & 15 stripes. 1854 – Anthony Foss patents the accordion. 1888 – National Geographic Society founded in Washington, D.C. 1913 – Delta Sigma Theta, the world’s largest Black Women’s Sorority is founded at Howard University, Washington, D.C. 1920 – NY Times editorial (falsely) reports rockets can never fly. 1928 – RCA and GE install three test television sets in homes in Schenectady, New York allowing American inventor E.F.W. Alexanderson to demonstrate the first home television receiver which delivered a poor and unsteady 1.5 square inch picture. 1930 – …..

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Bladen County Pet of the Week: Onyx

By: Dora Brogdon This week a 1 to 2 year old male named Onyx. This handsome cat is very affectionate and sweet. He’s very playful and the perfect family cat! The cost to adopt a dog is $50 and $40 to adopt a cat, which includes the animal’s first required shots. The adoption hours are Monday to Friday from noon until 5 p.m. Donations of dog food, treats, toys, and cat litter are accepted by the shelter. Bladen County Animal Shelter is located at 506 Smith Circle in Elizabethtown. For more information or questions call (910) 862-6918. Share:

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Lower Cape Fear Hospice to offer grief and loss workshop

WILMINGTON  – Lower Cape Fear Hospice will offer a 90-minute grief workshop: Understanding Grief and Loss. It will take place from  3 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 13th, at the Bladen County office, located at 116 W. Broad Street in Elizabethtown. There is no cost to attend; pre-registration is required. Call 910-515-6689 to register. “It’s been said, every loss is different and every loss is the same,” Melissa Rogers, LCFH bereavement counselor, said. “Though a person’s loss is truly unique, a person’s grief process probably shares some similarities with the grief process of others. This workshop will focus on those similarities and some tried-and-true coping skills those grieving can learn …..

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Help Keep Bladen County Clean

  Litter is piling up all over Bladen County and we need a solution. It kills wildlife, looks disgusting, is hazardous to our health, and clean up doesn’t come cheap. Litter clean-up costs the U.S. more than an estimated $11.5 billion each year. Folks need to realize they are causing a real problem when they litter. When you litter, you are not just affecting yourself. Indirect costs include the degree to which litter reduces the value of real estate, deters a customer from entering a business, or a new employer from locating to a community. This issue affects our whole community. Keep Bladen Beautiful promotes recycling, solid waste handling practices, …..

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Rotary Club learns the importance of healthy weight loss

Health and fitness are topics that many of us have confronted. Kellye Fell, daughter of Rotarian Roy Allen, addressed the Elizabethtown Rotary Club about her journey to get healthy and improve her fitness.  Fell told the club her journey began with a gastric bypass surgery. She said at the time of her surgery, she weighed 350 pounds. As she became more active and began to go to work out following her surgery, she said the weight came off. Fell explained that while she was loosing weight, when she looked in the mirror, she still felt overweight. She said as a result she began to exercise more and was eating less …..

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Beware! It’s flu season

Contributed Be aware of being around large and crowded areas as the flu season is still here. Signs and Symptoms of Flu People who have the flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms: Fever* or feeling feverish/chills Cough Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Muscle or body aches Headaches Fatigue (very tired) Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults. Flu Vaccines available: the Flu vaccine (ages 6 months and up) the Flu Intradermal vaccine (90% shorter needle) the High Dose Flu vaccine (is recommended for ages 65 and older) The Health Dept. will bill your insurance for …..

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Bladen Opioid Task Force meets, gets update on grant opportunity

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Opioid Task Force met on Tuesday afternoon and heard an update regarding a grant application for the proposed Jail To Treatment Diversion program. The grant application is due on January 10th. The meeting was well attended by concerned members of the community, County Commissioners, members of the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, Bladen County Clergy, Bladen County Schools, Eastpointe MCO, Bladen County Health Department, Bladen County Department of Social Services, Bladen County Guardian ad Litem program, and health care professionals.  Bladen County Commissioner Charles Ray Peterson, who facilitated the meeting, said the county is applying for a grant to create a program whereby individuals who have …..

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Chamber hears about Elizabethtown Parks

By Erin Smith The Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce heard from Rod Fritz, Parks and Recreation Director for the Town of Elizabethtown, regarding the town’s parks and improvements that have been made to them.  Town Manager Eddie Madden introduced topics to the membership. “About 10 years ago we began work to improve the downtown and really focusing on lifestyles and getting people outdoors.” Madden said the town performed a study and developed and bicycle and pedestrian plan. He said they studied what the town needed to do to make the parks more friendly and accessible to the public. Rod Fritz was hired as the Parks and Recreation Director and he …..

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Let’s Eat Out, But Where?

By: Cheryl Thurston January has started off so chilly, it makes me crave a good bowl of chili. It might be a good time to organize a chili cook-off for the cold winter months. By now, everyone is probably back to work after a nice holiday vacation, and getting back into the old routine. Does your routine include eating out somewhere? Mine does. BladenOnline.com is back to work too, serving our readers and bringing you the sanitation grades for the kitchens and eating establishments which were inspected in December by your local Health Department. Please check to see if your favorite restaurant is on the list. And as always, Bon Appitité.   …..

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